Socastee had two Christmas drives that raised money and collected toys for community members in need. 

ROTC, the baseball team and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) raised $850 for Toys for Tots. They also collected a few bins worth of new toys for kids.

Guidance’s Angel Tree drive raised a little over $2,000. This is the fifth year Guidance has organized the drive and the money goes to help students in need.

“It’s just a way for us to be able to reach out to students who need some extra help during the holidays,” Guidance Counselor Mrs. Cinnamon Adams said. “Especially this year being so difficult on a lot of families financially.”

The money was raised by having students contribute during their 3rd block class. Every $20 went toward an “angel” listing someone in need on a Christmas tree in Guidance. Mr. Kling’s 3rd block class raised the most money and received a Chick-fil-A lunch for both A and B groups this week. He said they raised $380.

Baseball Coach Curtis Hudson said he got the idea to help Toys for Tots from a former player.

“I said ‘Man, that’s a great idea’. It gets our players out there and teaches them about volunteering and helping those less fortunate than us.”

In past years, students have been able to shop and deliver gifts in person. But this year they cannot because of COVID restrictions.

“It helps to put a face with what you’re doing, but we do know we are helping people.”