Seniors of Merit at Work (SMW) partnered with Foothill Unity Center to host a food drive at Arcadia High School to provide for the elderly people and individuals with disabilities, low income, or insecure housing.

The food drive had success collecting almost 4000 items and raising almost $200. On behalf of Foothill Unity Center, PTSA, and SMW, we thank those who came together to help, as well as the entire Football team who contributed to gathering and loading the proceedings.

Foothill Unity Center, founded in 1980, has been a major food source for many families. It is a multi-service agency with multiple programs to help people come out of poverty and get back on their feet. 

“The food drive was first started in Arcadia 1932 during the Great Depression era. It benefits over 1,200 local families,” stated SMW Chair senior Joanne Zhao.

Zhao explained how it is important to give to this food drive as, “these donations significantly impact our community, especially as the holiday season approaches.” These donations were taken to Foothill Unity Center by SMW members for distribution. Zhao shared that, “SMW also works in conjunction with the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA)  to ensure the Food Drive goes smoothly.”

There are many people who aren’t able to get a proper meal, and are on the verge of becoming homeless. This problem is more real than we may think, and it’s important to understand their situation. A small donation will make a big difference, and each donation comes together to make a big impact. 

The goal was to help these people have a full meal, especially with Thanksgiving coming up to give them the support they need. From Oct. 27 to Nov. 9, donations were open in fourth period classes, directly to a SMW member, or to the SMW advisor, Ms. Claudia Grubbs. There were also food donation boxes in the front office and the library. 

“SMW is deeply committed to collecting as many donations as possible in order to benefit our local community,” Zhao expressed. 

Students were able to donate canned food with pop tops, toiletries, baby items, socks, board games, and small water bottles. Money, checks, and gift cards were also accepted. However, homemade foods, perishable items, and glass were not allowed. 

In the end, the food drive had success collecting almost 4000 items and raising almost $200. On behalf of Foothill Unity Center, PTSA, and SMW, they thank those who came together to help, as well as the entire Football team who contributed to gathering and loading the proceedings.

Photos courtesy of Shirley Yee