Struthers Students Rally to Send Easter Surprise to Akron Children’s Patients

Students at Struthers Middle and Elementary Schools sent toys and cards for patient Easter baskets at Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.

The project began with a toy drive initiated by the Struthers Middle School student council. From March 22 through March 31, students brought in toys, coloring books, games, and other items for children’s Easter baskets. For each item brought in, the student received a ticket for a chance to win a 50-inch 4k flatscreen TV, sponsored through generous contributions from teachers in the district.

The students’ generosity didn’t stop with donations to the drive, explains John Pascarella, Struthers Language Arts teacher and advisor for Struthers Middle School Student Council. “Many students donated items and placed different names on tickets to give others a chance to win - all on their own."

Struthers elementary students crafted more than 350 Easter cards to spread cheer to the patients. Each card included a picture of Tyrus, the therapy dog who visits students in the district, decked out for the holiday.

Even the district’s staff got involved. “We had staff members from every grade level, secretaries, custodians, lunch help, and administration donate money, toys, or both,” says Pascarella. “Some teachers matched what their home room donated!”

8th grade Katy Morris may have won the TV grand prize, but it’s safe to say the children at Akron Children’s Boardman campus won as well with the hundreds of toys, games, cards, and more to brighten their days.