Instead of students rushing to drop off cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie mix and other Thanksgiving donations at Activities Director Michelle Russell’s room, this year they hopped into their cars and participated in a drive-by donation. Once again, Krop’s faculty and students showed their devotion to our school by working around strict regulations to serve our local community for the Thanksgiving holiday food drive. 

The Student Government Association (SGA) along with the Inter-Club Council devised a COVID-19 safe plan that would allow all of Krop’s clubs to participate in the school’s annual Thanksgiving basket making. SGA president, senior Cecilia Edelberg and vice president, junior Pablo Manzo teamed up, creating meticulous spreadsheets to organize every club, the items needed and a list of what each member would bring. The drive allowed students to socially distance by staying in their car, handing their donations to volunteers. None of the clubs were required to participate; however, 55 of Krop’s organized activities contributed this year. 

Despite the majority of our student body learning from home, 37 full baskets were put together this year: 15 baskets went to families of Krop students, three were distributed to Krop staff members, three went to families within the community and 16 were given to non-profit organizations. Additionally, 10 boxes of food were donated to Feeding South Florida and 11 faculty members received gift cards to purchase turkeys. 

“After a difficult year, everybody deserves a day to spread love, be with your family and eat good food,” said SGA recording secretary, senior Lauryn Hornstein. 

Still, this process did not come without its obstacles. The original dates for the drive were supposed to be over three days: Nov. 5, 12 and 17. Due to Tropical Storm Eta’s landing in Miami-Dade and the closing of schools, the collection was cut short to only the last two dates. Besides that, some clubs hadn’t yet established their board members, causing a delay in their responses for participation.

Our leaders and organizers surpassed this year’s challenges, leading to another successful Thanksgiving drive. By taking action, Krop has done their part in providing aid not just to the people walking through our hallways, but to our community members in need.