Bonham Elementary School students donated money and volunteered at the Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry on Tuesday morning.
Bonham Elementary School’s National Elementary Honor Society students and their teachers donated $1,085.15 in the form of a check, which will be used by Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry volunteers to purchase additional food for those in need.
“The students donating the check made me want to cry,” said Melanie Haraway, a longtime volunteer at the food pantry. “That’s an amazing amount.”
Those in need of food lined up at the food pantry located at the Church of Christ on Harrison Avenue.
Bonham elementary students helped hand out turkeys, canned goods, and vegetables to guests.
“Helping the people who can’t afford Thanksgiving meals makes me feel good,” said Rayden Lopez, a 4th grade student. “I’m able to help people in need because everyone needs to have a good time during the holidays like Thanksgiving.”
Rayden was able to attend the field trip as an honor society member because he has maintained his grades. 
Ahead of Thanksgiving break, Rayden spent time helping others, something that is close to his heart.
“I’m thankful for the country we live in for all the nice people that are here all around the countries, the states, the counties, the cities,” he said after helping food pantry guests load pies into their bags. “I’m grateful for everything, really. I’m glad I’m able to have a feast with my family.”
Rayden was one of a few dozen students and their teachers who volunteered.
“The clients love seeing the younger faces and their smiles,” Haraway said.
The food pantry’s director Jim Coffman agreed, noting the monetary donation will go a long way in providing more meals to those in need.
Volunteers, including the students, handed out about 9,000 pounds of food items ahead of Thanksgiving week.
