The Theatre Department is sponsoring its annual food drive.  It is part of the Nationwide Campaign of International Thespians society and the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

“Last year we held the campaign during homecoming week, so this year we are trying something new and having an all school canned food drive called Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat. We received 500 lbs. of food last year, and are hoping to reach our goal of 2,000 cans this year,” Theatre Director Amie Gossett said.  “If every student brought in two cans, we could easily have 2,000 lbs.”

The Theatre Department will send their donations to the Circle of Concern (CC). The CC is St. Louis County based and provides emergency assistance to low-income families.  They assist families that live in Parkway, Rockwood, Valley Park and Fenton school districts.

“Our goal is that each food order helps the family save money at the grocery store so that they can put their income toward their utilities and housing,” community volunteer Harry LeMay said.

The CC accepts donations from anyone.  Their biggest donators are from Wal-Mart and local churches and schools. Girl Scout troops and Boy Scout troops also donate.

“We’ll accept anything you’re willing to give.  The most useful foods are peanut butter, jelly, cereal, canned tomatoes or anything tomato based, and canned meats.  School supplies, books and hygienic supplies are also very useful,” LeMay said.

The Theatre Department will be accepting donations from October 22-26.  The donated cans can be dropped off in collection bins in the locker bays and in the main lobby.

Circle Of Concern is located in Valley Park at 112 St. Louis Avenue. (About a mile north of the 141/44 intersection off Marshall Road.)

Circle Of Concern welcomes all individuals and groups to come tour our facility. They also work with groups to provide a speaker at area events or meetings. If you would like either a tour or a speaker please complete an online application (http://www.circleofconcern.org/contact.html) and you will be contacted with availabilities.

To find out more information about Circle Of Concern call 636.861.2623