OJH’s Kimbro helps OVFD toy drive

Olney Junior High student Laney Kimbro is on a mission to brighten children’s holidays with a new book of their very own. This sixth grade student is running a book drive for the OVFD annual Toys For Tots program and she is hoping to get as many books into the hands of children this Christmas as possible.

“I love to read, and I want everyone to have the opportunity to have a book of their own. for Christmas,” Kimbro said.

This past summer, Laney attended the Lone Star Leadership Academy after being nominated by Brooke McElroy, her fifth grade homeroom teacher. She then joined the Alumni Council, where she learned about leadership. A part of Kimbro’s duties on the council involves doing a service project. This led to the book drive.

“I enjoyed the leadership camp very much, and I plan to use the skills I have learned to help me with this project,” Kimbro said.

Kimbro’s goal is to raise $1,000 to buy a new book for each child that is signed up for the Toys For Tots program. She sold pies and cookies over Thanksgiving break and visited local businesses for sponsorships.

She said If needed she will do a bake sale in the near future. And if she raises more money than is needed, the money will be donated to the OVFD.

Any community donations towards this project may be sent to the Olney Volunteer Fire Department and earmarked “Book Drive.”

“My sponsor, Mr. Scotte Clark, and a few friends are going to help me with this project because I know that I’m going to need the help,” said Kimbro. ”With their help, Christmas is going to be special for these kids.”