By Joey McWilliams
DURANT – Some Durant Middle School students head into Spring Break knowing they may be making a difference in their community.
News presented by First United Bank.
A number of DMS seventh- and eighth-graders have been participating in a student-led drive to help the Durant Animal Shelter. Among the activities they have been doing is to stand ready at the morning drop-off sites in the parking lot to collect money donations or food items to give to the shelter.
Maegan Bedwell organized this effort after a conversation with her mother prompted her to think about the animals.
“My mom was telling me about how the pound always needs more supplies and they’re always low on money,” Bedwell said. “We thought maybe if we just chipped in, it would give them some time to save money and just to make a difference there.
“We’re collecting change for the pound and we’re also collecting items, but we just do that whenever kids are able to give us something. But we haven’t gotten very many of those.”
As of Friday morning, the group had brought in more than $370 for the cause. Bedwell was responsible for getting the drive underway and took the initiative to get the behind-the-scenes work done.
DMS students Katie Moore (L) and Sydney Cubley stand at the seventh grade drop-off point to help with the drive. Staff photo.
“I went to Ms. Lowry, one of the counselors here, and she told me it was a good idea,” Bedwell said. “And I made a proposal and then she showed it to Mr. Williamson, the principal, and he approved it. So every day this week we’ve been collecting change. And they made announcements so kids could bring stuff.”
She hasn’t been alone in her work. Fellow seventh-grader Mary Catherine said what the group was doing is important.
“I’m grateful for all the people who have given money for all these animals that are going to be put under and they deserve to live,” Catherine said.
The pet food drive ended on Friday as the students go into Spring Break. However, there may another opportunity to give as the school year winds down, and if so, the information will be posted in the Patriot.