Every year Norwalk High School hosts its annual holiday toy drive, Stuff-A-Bus, inviting students and the community to come together and give back.
Organized by Norwalk ASB students and staff, this year’s Charlie Brown themed celebration took place on Dec.12 during the school’s lunch in their quad.
A festively decorated City of Norwalk bus arrived to be stuffed with new unwrapped toys that students were encouraged to donate.
All donations collected benefited the City of Norwalk Angel Tree Project, which helps provide gifts to local children and families in need this holiday season.
Stuff-A-Bus is transformed into a lively event featuring lots of holiday decorations, a friendly donation competition, food, games, pictures with Santa, performances, and more.
Those who participated were offered free pan dulce and hot chocolate provided and made by the school’s Culinary Arts Pathway program.
“We all love helping people, performing is not just for ourselves but to make others happy, it’s a good feeling to give back”, says dance team member, Magdalena Robles.
The event featured live performances by the Norwalk High cheer and dance teams, creating an energetic and cheerful atmosphere.
During the event Principal of Norwalk High, Dr. David Olea, gave a heartfelt speech emphasizing the importance of donating and why the school participation is special.
In addition to the performances and donations occurring, students were able to participate in interactive games helping make the toy drive both engaging and memorable for students.
ASB organizers also hosted three donation competitions between clubs, sports teams and fourth period classes to encourage participation.
Students selected a category when donating, and organizers tracked totals throughout the event. Winners from each category earned a pizza party.
This year, students set a goal of 700 donated toys. The goal was not only met but exceeded, with a total of 774 toys collected.
ASB students, along with ASB coordinator Cathy De Alba, played a major role in organizing and executing the event.
“The day of the event is of course overwhelming and it can be stressful, so it’s just about leading with kindness,” said ASB president, Romina Franco, who helped lead this event.
Franco shared that the event holds personal meaning for her. “I was a recipient of Angel Tree so I understand the impact they have, now I feel it is my responsibility to give back and have that same cheer for children,” Franco added.
For many students, Stuff-A-Bus resonates on a deeper level. Having experienced similar hardships growing up, students recognize how difficult the holidays can be for families and feel motivated to help others in similar situations.
More than just a donation drive, Stuff-A-Bus created a warm and cheerful environment that reminded students that giving back to the community can be both meaningful and fun.
“I think it’s really important that we as a community help each other and help those who are in need,” Jeina Lapeña said, “It’s amazing to see the length people are willing to go help”
