This holiday season at Townsend Harris High School, seniors Atia Ahmed and Nefertari Elshiekh have started a fundraiser for the children at Elmhurst Hospital.

“We created this fundraiser with the intention of gathering toys, blankets, and games for hospitalized children,” Atia explained. A bright red box sits in the lobby where students can drop off any items they wish to donate. In addition, Atia and Nefertari hope to soon bring students together “to create approximately 200 care packages which will consist of books, blankets, toys and other goodies” for the children’s hospital drive.

Atia and Nefertari came up with the idea for the fundraiser last year when they “realized that the holidays, despite being a source of joy and excitement for us, did not signify the same thing to everybody.”

Several students who had no knowledge of the holiday drive, such as freshman Asher Izower and sophomore Rachel Chai, expressed their desire to donate upon hearing of it. “I have children’s books in good condition that I can put in the box,” said Asher. Rachel stated that she may be able to “bring in board games and books too.”

“I saw the donation box in the hallway and asked around about what it was for,” recalled junior Hannah Kim. “After I found out that it was for hospitalized children, I looked around my house for any lightly-used toys and puzzles… [I would] rather donate the toys to a good cause rather than let them sit around and collect dust.”

Coordinator of Student Activities Sarah Loew explained how the staff and SU Board can assist students in starting their own school fundraisers. “The best way would be to contact me or an SU Board member and we can help to arrange for the collection of items— whether it be putting a box in the lobby, putting up posters, making announcements, or sending out an email to students.” Mrs. Loew said. “Anyone is welcome to use our school community as an avenue to help promote community service and service learning.”

The last day for students to donate will be December 19.