East Panhandle Times

Martinsburg North Middle School's Sources of Strength group recently organized a food drive, encouraging students and community members to donate non-perishable items for those in need. The initiative is part of the Sources of Strength program, which aims to promote mental health and prevent suicide by training students as peer mentors.

Brianna Sigler, the school counselor leading the group, sought a way for her students to give back. She decided on a Thanksgiving food drive as an opportunity for them to contribute positively. "Based on where we are in the community, some of these kids are not the most well off," Sigler stated. "I wanted to show them that even if you’re down, you can still help people around you."

Throughout November, students promoted the drive through flyers and outreach efforts involving parents and local organizations. Their efforts resulted in collecting 300 items donated to the Martinsburg Initiative for distribution.

Sigler emphasized teaching students that good deeds don't always come with rewards. She noted that many drives use competition as motivation but aimed to instill altruism without expectation among her students. "I wanted them to learn that not every generosity is rewarded," she explained.

The drive also fostered a sense of community within the school. Sigler highlighted its importance in making families feel connected and supported. She expressed gratitude for student participation and involvement in the initiative.