Area high school senior athletes give back to child abuse victims

The coronavirus pandemic is hindering a lot of activities, but it's not stopping a holiday tradition part of Lanierland basketball tournament.

The annual Senior Toy Drive for Edmondson Telford Center and breakfast went on as scheduled for 2020, but different than typically planned.

Seniors watched an informational video about the child abuse resource center, collected toys and dropped them off at the center, with a meal hand-delivered by Edmondson Telford Center staff, provided by Chick-fil-A and Jackson EMC.

"We can't do (the presentation) this year because we're not gathering, but we have a video," said Jane Carpenter, Fund Development Director for the Center. "So we sent that out to all the ADs and the coaches, asked that they share that with their team and watch it."

The video details what the Edmondson Telford Center is and what they do for the community. 

"There are always kids and families in need at Christmas, and what's better than making a child's Christmas with toys and gifts!?" said Carpenter. 

The Center has been the charity of choice for the Lanierland tournament for several years. Carpenter said typically, they will take three carloads of toys and gifts back to the center from the annual gathering.

"It's an important time in the year and not every kid gets the opportunities that we get," said Flowery Branch senior Maurice Fann. "And it's good that they get toys every Christmas."

"Not every kid has the privileges we have," Flowery Branch senior Trevor Gurske agreed. "It's just nice to give back."

Lanierland encompasses boys and girls varsity basketball teams from Hall County Schools, Gainesville High and Lakeview Academy. Many students came in small groups to drop off their toys, or sent their coach of athletic director in their place to keep things socially distant.

Santa Cow made sure everyone was thanked for their kindness.

North Hall Girls Basketball Seniors represented at Edmondson Telford Center with two large bags full of goodies.

The breakfast was provided by Chick-fil-A and Jackson EMC. Santa Cow made an appearance, using signs to show his gratitude.

Edmondson Telford Center staff. They retrieved toys and delivered the breakfasts to students, coaches and athletic directors so they wouldn't have to get out of their vehicles.

Several cars collected lots of toys, with multiple bags stocked in the trunk or backseat.

North Hall Senior Girls dropped off their toys, grabbed breakfast and stopped to get a picture with the Santa Cow

"See Mor Appreciashun" - Santa Cow

http://accesswdun.com/article/2020/12/960298/area-high-school-senior-athletes-give-back-to-child-abuse-victims