This year, the Connetquot High School Tri-M Music Honor Society sponsored the fourth annual Addie’s Army Toy Drive to benefit children and families staying at the New York Metro Ronald McDonald House.

Addie’s Army was established in 2021 by Connetquot High School choir teacher Nicole White and her family in honor of her daughter, Addison. Nicole and her husband, Ryan, lived at the Ronald McDonald House in the spring of 2021 while Addison received critical care at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. When Addison came home, they wanted to give back to the amazing charity and help others in the way they were supported during a time of need.

“When I asked the Tri-M officers if they wanted to ‘sponsor a box’ for the toy drive, they agreed without hesitation and were enthusiastic about spreading the word,” said Nicole White. On Nov. 19, Tri-M officers Hannah Antony Raj, Brynn Burke, Samantha DeLuca, Ava Ross and Gianna Stecker, alongside club adviser Nicole White, presented approximately 175 toys and a $250 check from the Connetquot Teachers Association. In total, Addie’s Army donated over 1,000 toys this year to families in need.

“It is truly touching to see the Connetquot community come together to support our charity and the thousands of families that stay at the Ronald McDonald House each year,” said Nicole White. “Ronald McDonald House Charities is a home away from home with fully stocked kitchens, a meditation room, an exercise room and one-of-a-kind designer bedrooms and bathrooms. The students received an invaluable experience by being there and contributing to such a worthy cause.”

Date Added: 12/17/2024