Local schools hold food drive for Valley Rescue Mission as part of Red Ribbon Week | News

COLUMBUS, GA (WTVM)- Thirteen local elementary and middle schools are holding canned food
drives for Valley Rescue Mission as they celebrate Red Ribbon Week. 

Red Ribbon Week's mission is to lead and support our nation's families
and communities in nurturing the full potential of healthy, drug-free youth. 

This year's Red Ribbon Week is being held from October 23 to 31.

Local students have held canned food drives for Valley Rescue Mission for
nearly 10 years now as part of the week. The canned food drive is one way that even the smallest
child can contribute. This activity gives them the opportunity to help with the
needs of the clients at the Mission's substance abuse recovery program while
being exposed to the anti-drug message "I can say no to drugs." 

The following
local schools are participating in the program this year: Allen Elementary,
Blanchard Elementary, Dexter Elementary, Double Churches Middle School, E.A.
White Elementary, Loyd Elementary, Richards Middle School, Sherwood Elementary,
South Columbus Elementary, St. Anne Pacelli Catholic School, Wesley Heights
Elementary, Wilson Elementary, and Wynnton Elementary.

Since its beginning in 1985, the Red Ribbon has touched the lives of
millions of people around the world. In response to the murder of DEA Agent
Enrique Camarena, angered parents and youth in communities across the country
began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of
the killing and destruction cause by drugs in America.

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