The children at Hampton Bays Elementary School understand that Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and football; it's also a day to give thanks and share their abundance with others. In the spirit of the holiday, the students participated in the annual Turkey Box food drive and competition.
For three weeks, each class at the elementary school collected and donated nonperishable food items for community members in need. Students brought in a variety of goods, including pasta, canned goods, cake mixes and cereal, as well as traditional holiday fare such as stuffing and chicken broth.

At the conclusion of the drive, Girl Scout Troop No. 468 boxed the goodies into 15 separate "turkey boxes," designed by their classmates, for delivery to 15 local families.

As part of the annual tradition, the boxes were entered into a friendly competition, with the entry of Kristie Loper's first-grade class judged as most creative. The winning box, dubbed the "Turkey Bowl," was made to look like a football stadium and even had a false bottom "food court" where the donations were to be stored.

"These kids just knock it out of the park every time," said Elementary School Assistant Principal Richard Triandafils. "They do a great job!"

Photo caption: Members of the Girl Scouts Troop #468 held a "Turkey Box" food drive at Hampton Bays Elementary School to feed locals in need. The annual service event also doubles as a class competition for the title of the best "Turkey Box." This year, the winning “Turkey Bowl” entry was constructed by Kristie Loper's first-grade class.