BATH — As Hurricane Florence devastated eastern North Carolina, the immediate result was an outpouring of donations and support for those in need. In Bath, a small group of young people at Bath Christian Church recognized this need and decided to step into action.

For the month of September, the BCC Kids of God’s Word were studying the theme of “Why not me?,” an empowering message that encouraged students to try and make a difference, regardless of their age and the size of the group.

“When Hurricane Florence struck our area, our young people learned about the many people who needed food and other items to help see them through a terrible situation,” Kids of God’s Word youth leader Claudia Alligood explained. “So our young people said, ‘Why not us?’”

With a purpose of helping those in need, the members of the youth group connected with Bath Elementary School Principal Spencer Pake to propose the idea of a food drive at the school benefiting Eagle’s Wings, the local food pantry. With the principal on board, the youth went on to partner with the Jr. Beta Club to establish the “Food Drive for Eagle’s Wings.”

On Monday, Oct. 1, students arrived at school to see four carts at the school’s entryway. Earlier this semester, as a part of the school’s Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies, BES students were divided into four “houses” — Amic, Dawca, Valor and Sanjar. Throughout the year, these houses will participate in friendly competitions, with the food drive being one of many to come.

All members of the school — from students and teachers to office personnel and support staff — are members of the houses. With the food drive continuing through Friday, the winning house will be treated to a pizza party courtesy of the BCC Kids of God’s Word.

“There is so much to be done to help those who have lost so much as a result of Hurricane Florence, and, on occasion, other natural and manmade disasters that affect our area,” Alligood said. “Follow the lead of the children as they search for ways to help others. We invite you to share the intention of our motto, so ‘Why not you?’”

Pushed forward by combination of purpose and school spirit, the Food Drive for Eagle’s Wings will continue through Friday. To contribute to drive, send your donations with students, faculty and staff at Bath Elementary School.