Operation snowflake: local ffa students collect hygiene items for veterans at va augusta | va augusta health care | veterans affairs

Throughout the month of December, 90 students from Cross Creek High School, collected personal hygiene items including toothpaste, lotion and deodorant to donate to VA Augusta Veterans.

Stacey Henderson, agricultural educator and Future Farmers of America (FFA) advisor for 9-12 graders under Agricultural Education, led the collection. The FFA program plans community service

projects each month during the school year. With Fort Gordon nearby, many Cross Creek High School students have close ties to the cause. “My FFA members felt the need to complete a project

that would not only support our students who have family in the military but our large military community as well,” said Stacey Henderson. During project “Operation Snowflake”, FFA officers

contacted VA Augusta Health Care System’s Center for Development and Civic Engagement team and learned specific toiletry items are often in need for Veterans. FFA officers presented the idea

to members, and everyone agreed to engage in “Operation Snowflake.” “Giving is definitely something that I try to instill in every one of my students,” said Henderson. “I try to teach them

that it doesn’t matter how big or small, or the amount or kind of giving, as long as you do it, and you try your best!”