Like it does every year, the Jr./Sr. High School Student Council is giving back during the holiday season.
On December 16 and 17, student members made 42 apple pies for the Rescue Mission of Utica. The apples for the pies were generously donated by North Star Orchards Farm Market and Bakery in Westmoreland. Also in December, some students volunteered as bell ringers for the Salvation Army’s “Red Kettle Campaign.”
“It’s always great to see students come together to help others in the Central New York community,” Mr. Darrah, Student Council co-advisor, said. “Student Council, as well as other school service organizations like National Honor Society and Key Club, are always trying to fulfill the mission of helping others.” 
The Rescue Mission of Utica is a faith-based non-profit that was founded in 1890 and serves individuals overcoming homelessness, abuse, addictions and disabilities. The center is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and provides shelter, food, clothing, counseling and other services at no cost.
The Salvation Army’s “Red Kettle Campaign,” in its 128th year, is the oldest annual charitable fundraiser of its kind in the United States. During the holiday season, volunteers, with bells in hand, solicit monetary donations in front of businesses across the country, and even world. The money raised is used year-round by the Salvation Army to provide disaster relief and food for the hungry, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, shelter and necessities for the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children.
If you are interested in making a donation to the Rescue Mission of Utica and/or Salvation Army this holiday season, visit their websites:
Rescue Mission of Utica – www.uticamission.org
Salvation Army – www.salvationarmyusa.org
Great job, Student Council!