Rock Hill students reach out to needy

PEDRO — There is a cover-up going on in the Rock Hill School District.

At least, that’s what the National Honor Society students at Rock Hill High School are calling it.

The 18 seniors in the National Honor Society are working with the United Way to help needy children in the district stay warm this winter with a project they are calling the Big Cover-Up.

“Last year we had some kids wearing flip-flops in the snow,” said Krista Hayes, NHS adviser.

Hayes said that about 70 students would benefit from the project, which would collect brand-new winter coats, gloves, hats, scarves, boots and socks with money raised by the students, as well as a grant from the United Way.

Hayes said the group of students hope to raise at least $1,750 through a series of fundraisers and donations.

“The idea was to raise $50 per child,” Hayes said. “That was kind of our goal.”

If any money is left over after the clothing is purchased, Hayes said they would include a toy for each child.

She said the students have already raised around $250 from a bake sale.

The NHS students made the baked goods and sold them during lunch.

She also said the students are selling raffle tickets. The winning ticket holder will win a gift basket full of Ohio State University items.

The drawing will be held at the first boy’s basketball game on Dec. 4. Also, during half time at the game, there will be a foul shot contest.

Hayes also said that the students have been asking for donations from local businesses and will be holding a dance to raise money.

The culmination of the Big Cover-up will be a Christmas party for all the children receiving gifts from the collection.

Hayes said that although the project was intended for the elementary children, the cover-up would go district wide.

“We didn’t want to leave out any siblings,” Hayes said. She said that there were a few children in need at the middle and high schools whose younger brother or sister would be receiving gifts at the elementary school.

Hayes said the NHS students have been working very hard on the Big Cover-Up.

“We’ve been meeting after school,” she said. “They come in before school to meet.”

She also said the students have been meeting with the children they will be shopping for in order to personalize their gifts, like finding out their favorite colors.

Hayes said they plan to have the party for the children on Dec. 15 or 16. For more information or to make a donation to the Big Cover-Up, contact Krista Hayes at 532-7030 extension 2107.