The annual toy drive, organized by HOSA, is currently underway and will go through Dec. 17.
This heart-warming fundraiser has taken place for the past 3-4 years. Club members of HOSA and donors are trying to bring holiday joy to children at the St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The call for donations is any new, unwrapped toys, crafts, books, and games suitable for kids and teens aged 0-18. To make this list easily accessible HOSA has put QR codes on flyers put up around the school of specific item requirements.
The organizers are hoping for a generous outpouring of support, aiming for at least 20-30 donations. Donating is simple: there’s a designated bin outside the main office, or you can drop items off directly with HOSA sponsor Mrs. Strathman in room 425.
The excitement for this drive can be seen not only in the children but also the helpful volunteers and role models.
“I’m excited to, hopefully, see our number of donations increase each year,” Mrs. Strathman said.
The drive is led by HOSA officers and their president, Loukya Vaka. Strathman is optimistic about letting the HOSA officers lead.
“I love seeing them take charge of something so wonderful, meaningful, and kind. Knowing that they are helping the children in the hospital warms my heart and reminds me of the meaning of Christmas,” Strathman said.
This isn’t the only thing HOSA is organizing this year. Beyond the toy drive, HOSA also leads their annual winter blood drive on Tuesday, Feb. 24 and is also hoping a large turnout.
