SANFORD, NC - For nearly a decade, the Deep River Elementary Student Council has demonstrated the power of service and leadership through its annual Toy and Donation Drive supporting the HAVEN of Lee County. Under the guidance of Student Council Facilitator Laura Thomas, students collect toys, winter clothing and essential items for families and individuals seeking safety at the emergency shelter.
This week, student council members from third, fourth, and fifth grades loaded a bus with donated items and personally delivered boxes, bags, and gifts to the HAVEN. With arms full and hearts even fuller, the students brought comfort and joy to families affected by domestic violence and abuse across Sanford and the surrounding communities.
Thomas believes the Student Council provides a meaningful opportunity for students to learn what it means to be a leader through service. “I was looking for a way to teach the children that being a leader meant looking outside of yourself and your circle to others in the community,” Thomas said. “Because it was close to Christmas that first year, our winter wear drive evolved into a winter wear and toy drive, including ‘Mama Bags’ to provide something special for the moms.”
Savannah Campbell, Executive Director of the HAVEN of Lee County, shared her appreciation for the long-standing partnership. “Deep River is one of my favorite groups that donates every year,” Campbell told the students. “I love seeing familiar faces return as they move into fourth and fifth grade. They ask thoughtful questions and genuinely care about helping others.”
Fifth-grade student Aria A., president of the Student Council, reflected on the purpose behind the drive. “It is really important to have a place like this so people can get out of dangerous situations and feel safe,” she said. “When families come here, they may only have a teddy bear or something small with them. Having Christmas presents and toys helps them feel more comfortable while they are here.”
Campbell emphasized the tangible impact of the students’ generosity. “What you are doing is incredibly important,” she said. “We do not always have funding to provide toys for children, and there isn’t a specific funding source for that need. The clothing items you donate allow us to immediately support families when they arrive.”
With eight years of experience coordinating the drive, Thomas has witnessed firsthand the profound impact both the HAVEN and her students have on the community. “After our first delivery, one of my student council members shared that she, her mother, and her brother had once stayed at the HAVEN for a few months,” Thomas recalled. “In that moment, I felt like God reinforced that this was truly our outreach. It has been a blessing ever since.”
Experiences like the Toy and Donation Drive help prepare students to become compassionate leaders and engaged community members. Thomas is grateful that Deep River students have opportunities to serve at an early age. “Education is not only academic - it is social and emotional as well,” she said. “Learning that giving is a greater blessing than receiving comes from experience, and I’m proud that our students look forward to giving back each year.”