The Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter will be taking donations for families affected by Hurricane Harvey through September 15. The sponsors, along with several students, will drive  to Houston on September 16 to deliver them.

“Personally, I think myself and other students that will be going there all have a very servant heart,” Morgan Walker, FFA sponsor and agriculture science teacher, said. “I think we’re going to gain just a little bit of satisfaction knowing that we’re able to do something for somebody else.”

The deadline for accepting donations is fast approaching. On September 16, Walker and FFA officers Lynsey McKinney, Trevor Brown and Colleen Hooge will meet with first responders in the Rockport Area.

“One of our main things that we are trying to accomplish is touching the lives of others because we’re actually taking this money that we raise and going down there personally to the Houston area,” FFA president Ashlie Thompson said. “By personally getting to meet them, we want to not only support them financially but also make an impact on their life.”

The chapter is asking for monetary donations, such as money, store gift cards and network gift cards. Anyone who wishes to contribute can drop off their donation at the front office, to an agriculture teacher or to the administration building.

“I believe that it is a way not only for us to help people who can’t help themselves, but also connect with the victims,” FFA member Ashlyn Ellgass said. “I think it is an important part in making an impact.”

The category three hurricane is the first major hurricane to hit the U.S. in twelve years. In the Houston area, rainfall of 30 to 40 inches flooded homes and families.

“I would say not to lose hope and everything is going to be alright,” Thompson said. “One of the joys that I have found throughout this crisis is the willingness for people to come together within a community and be able to unite for a common goal.”