Kutztown Middle School's National Junior Honor Society recently hosted a Pet Pantry Drive for Friend Inc. Community Services in Kutztown as a community project.
“There are so many animals in need and people that have pets. They might need help providing for these animals. I hope that by hosting this pet pantry drive, we give them the opportunity to have one less thing to worry about,” Kutztown Middle School Junior Honor Society Vice President Kensington Burns said in a statement.
The eighth graders collected more than 70 donations of dog and cat food, treats, collars, waste bags, and toys.
“We had such a good turnout and I am glad we are able to help people who need it most and we are branching out of just our school,” Kutztown Middle School Junior Honor Society President Maya McGranahan said in a statement.
“I’m very proud of the entire NJHS because of how well we worked together,” said Burns. “I’m proud to call this our first project and I’m very excited to continue working on more things in the future.”
McGranahan liked this pet pantry drive because it was spread out for all grades and did not just depend on the middle school's National Junior Honor Society to bring items.
“It got everyone involved,” said McGranahan.
“I have two dogs of my own that I love and it brightens my day whenever I get to play with them,” said Burns.
Burns likes how through this pet pantry drive they were able to give pets in need some joy with new toys, food, and other necessities.
“I also like how we were able to bring our community together by running this pet pantry drive. It shows us how powerful we can be if we work together,” said Burns.
Jim Reece, executive director of Friend Inc., recently met the students involved and picked up the donations for Friend’s Pet Pantry. The eighth graders filled up Reece's car with the donations.
“The items will help serve the 550 pets we help fill bowls for each month,” Reece said in a statement. “These donations help relieve some of the financial pressure families experience with an additional family member or two.”
Keegan White, school counselor and middle school Junior Honor Society advisor, said the purpose of the National Junior Honor Society is to not only promote academic success but to shape students into individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the community.
“When we do building-wide projects, I hope that all of our students gain a better understanding of societal issues and understand the importance of giving back to others,” said White.
Currently, Kutztown Middle School's National Junior Honor Society consists of 18 eighth graders.
“We are in the process of inducting 6th and 7th grade students. We are excited to see NJHS grow and continue this journey of giving back to our community,” said White.