Union City students collect more than 14,500 items to donate to two charities

UNION CITY, Tenn. (KBSI) – Students at Union City Elementary School continued an annual pre-holiday tradition of community service by donating more than 13,000 cans and non-perishable food items to a pair of charitable organizations that will feed and assist those in need during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Students at the elementary and high school provided more than 14,500 items that were split evenly between Chimes for Charity and the Community Feeding of the 5,000.

“It’s just another example of how our students and staff continue to make us proud,” Union City Director of Schools Wes Kennedy said. “Their true spirit of giving and kindness is evident in this project. Walking around the halls and seeing all the stacked items that have been given lets me know they have servant’s hearts and compassion for others in need. I’m so proud and humbled to be a part of this school system with so many good people.”

UC Elementary School students produced their record donations by employing the annual Turkey Trot and PACER (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run) Run. They collected food items based on how many laps they ran or walked in the gymnasium during PE classes. Their final total (13,299) exceeded the previous high number (9,266) from two years ago.

Natalie Allison’s first-grade class produced the most items of any grade. They earned a class medallion and other special perks after contributing more than 2,000 entries.

Medals were presented to those students who accounted for the most items in each grade. Overall winners received a trophy.

The Key Club and Art Club spearheaded the drive at UC High School.