A giving tradition brought extra warmth and joy to Enka High School students the week before winter break.
Members of the Enka High Student Government Association (SGA) spent part of the day Thursday filling gift bags with hoodies, T-shirts, snacks, and other goodies in preparation for a distribution party on Friday. The gift bags went to students who could use a little extra cheer this holiday season.
“A little bit of everything goes in the bags - from shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies to snacks, toothbrushes, and nail clippers,” said Garrett, a senior member of Enka’s SGA. “We’re all a family here, so we want to make sure everyone can enjoy their break.”
Each year, Elves for Enka brings the whole community together. Second-period classes hold a friendly competition to see which class can raise the most – this year it was Career and Technical Education teacher Jennifer Hand’s class. The EHS Student Services Department also raises money and buys the clothes, computer cases, toiletries, and other goodies that fill the gift bags. The Biltmore Lake Community supports Elves for Enka through their Giving Garland project, and local businesses and individuals pitch in. The SGA organizes the fundraiser and assembles the bags.
“It’s a really fun way to give back, especially if you haven’t done a project like this before,” said Hodge, another senior. “Helping people makes you feel more connected, and it’s good for the soul.”