While the holiday season is in full swing and consumerism is at an all-time high, perhaps the greatest gift is giving back to the community.

The D.U.C.K.S. club has adopted two families from Mason Dixon Community Service’s “Adopt-A-Family” program. The program benefits deserving families with children under the age of 12, who might be unable to afford their own holiday celebration. Outside of the cafeteria by the guidance office festive Christmas trees have been hung, and items to buy for the adopted families are on the ornaments.

“Even though the D.U.C.K.S. club wasn’t as big as it is this year, we definitely got a lot of donations for last years’ fundraiser. I hope that it will be just as successful this year,” said club member junior Logan Reitz.

The D.U.C.K.S. club asks that students simply write their name on an ornament, but do not take the ornaments off of the trees. Donations are due by December 17, and money donations are also accepted.

“It’s great to know that because of our efforts some little kid will have a better Christmas. I can’t imagine what it would be like to wake up without presents under the tree,” said junior club member Deanna Hyman.

The club is also collecting eco-friendly personal care items and cleaning supplies such as shampoo, detergent, and toothpaste. All donations are greatly appreciated. The D.U.C.K.S. club is one of the few organizations that collects items for Mason Dixon all year, and was recently recognized at a meeting for their continual efforts.
One of Mason Dixon’s other programs is “Toys-For-Tots”, which benefits children under fourteen, and provides a little something extra for under the Christmas tree. Founded over 30 years ago, Mason Dixon Community Services serves more than 25,000 individuals annually. The organization strives to bring food and energy assistance to low-income residents of York and Harford counties.