USD 398 students are gathering non-perishable food and personal care items for distribution by the Association of churches in time for Christmas.

Students at both the elementary school and the junior-senior high school began bringing items to their classrooms on Friday. The drive will continue until December 14.

Peabody-Burns Elementary School Principal Ken Parry has coordinated the effort this year.

“We decided to keep it local,” Parry said. “In the past, the high school has contributed to a shelter in Newton, but we are seeing more need locally and decided the donations should stay in our communities.”

Parry said that if there are items left after the holidays, they will be donated to the community food banks for distribution as the need arises.