South Laurel FFCLA Chapter commemorates new donation box with ribbon cutting
Members of the South Laurel FCCLA Chapter excitedly celebrate the ribbon-cutting for the donation box as Mayor Randall Weddle, far right, applauds them. | PHOTO BY MADISON NANTZ
BY MADISON NANTZ Staff Writer
Members of the South Laurel FFCLA( Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) Chapter excitedly celebrated the addition of a donation box at Mill Street Park by holding a ribboncutting last November. FCCLA is a national, student-run organization which aims to make a positive impact on communities and build leadership abilities. The South Laurel FCCLA Chapter’ s initiative, called“ Boxes4Better,” was created in an effort to help the community by ensuring that essential items are available to any community member in need. Speaking on behalf of the chapter was Jaelyn West, Vice President of Individual Programs; Bailey Jenkins, Vice President of Public
4 Laurel County School Directory
Relations; and Lily Hollingshead, Vice President of the South Laurel FCCLA Chapter.“ It is our great pleasure to open our community box called‘ Boxes- 4Better,’ a wonderful initiative that aims to bring us closer together and provide resources for everyone to enjoy,” Hollingshead stated, beginning the event.“ We chose to install this box to help as many people as possible and to make a difference within our community.” Following Hollingshead, West said,“ According to census data from 2018-2022, London, Kentucky, has a significant portion of its population living in poverty— 26.2 %, or one out of every four people, which is double the national average of 11.5 %.” West went on to share that there is additionally an unemployment rate of 50.3 %, which is 12 times the national average rate of 4.1 %. Jenkins then added,“ As we look ahead, we hope to continue stocking our box and to create a lasting impact.” The ladies went on to thank Moody Cows, Pour Boyz, Nutrishop, Subway, King Donuts, Otter Creek Labs, and Something’ s Brewing for their generous contributions to the project. Also thanked was London Mayor Randall Weddle, who was in attendance and spoke as well. Mayor Weddle commended the chapter for their dedication to making a difference, stating,“ This is how we begin to change London. It’ s not one politician, it’ s not two politicians— it’ s everybody that’ s standing here. The most amazing thing out of Laurel County school systems we see is the kids leading the forefront. That tells you what bright individuals that’ s being raised up in our school systems here.” Mill Street Park, where the donation box can be found near the pavilion, is located at 201 North Mill St. in London. Those interested in contributing to the box may donate hygiene products, bottled water, and nonperishable foods( such as microwavable and canned foods) by contacting the South Laurel FFCLA Chapter. To learn more about the Boxes- 4Better initiative or make a donation, visit their Instagram @ slhsfcclaofficers or email the involved parties at boxes4better @ gmail. com.