Lambton College Fire School students are taking the lead in collecting donations of non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys to support community members during the holiday season.
Fire Science Technology Coordinator Scott Brown said while this isn't the first time the school has hosted this type of holiday initiative, it has been a few years since it was held.
Students Samantha Guido and Ava Scratch approached staff with the request.
“As aspiring firefighters, helping our community is at the core of what we do,” said Guido.
“Just from attending Lambton College, we know how supportive Sarnia-Lambton is, and we’re excited to be working with the community to help take care of our own this holiday season,” said Scratch.
They're hoping residents will support the cause during a drive-thru donation drop-off event on Saturday, December 13, at the Lambton College Residence and Event Centre parking lot.
"There will be a number of our students there collecting and helping people move food out of their vehicles and into our carts so that we can help support our own Lion's Heart food and clothing bank at Lambton College, as well as the Inn of the Good Shepherd," Brown said.
The drop-off event will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Donations were also collected during the Corunna Santa Claus Parade held on November 29. Brown said they filled an entire pickup truck with food items, which will be distributed to food banks in St. Clair Township and to the Operation Christmas Tree initiative.
Students and staff also walked in the Sarnia Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade on December 6.
