ADAMS TWP —A project celebrating its 10th year at Mars High School shows the warmth of families in the Mars School District.

The annual student council coat drive wrapped up Thursday, and on Friday about 20 large garbage bags stuffed with coats, hats, gloves, snow pants and snow suits were delivered to Boaz House at the Glade Run United Presbyterian Church in Middlesex Township.

Those cold-weather items came in sizes from toddler to adult.

Guidance counselor Tanis Rose, who along with colleague Tina Bigante helps student council members coordinate the drive each year, was stunned at the number of items received.

“I think this is the biggest coat drive that we’ve had,” Rose said.

She said several items were received during the basketball tournament on a recent weekend. Rose also wondered if the early onset of snowy weather prompted some families to worry about those who cannot afford a coat.

“I think this is the most generous, giving community I have ever been involved with,” Rose said. “With every single fundraiser that we do, these families step up and go beyond what is expected every single time.”

Sally McIntyre, Boaz House coordinator, said the small house just north of the church on Route 8 is open from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursdays. It has new and used clothing, outerwear and small appliances. She said anyone can come in and get items for free.

McIntyre said the church first began offering the items in the church basement 30 years ago. She said about five years ago, the church bought the neighboring property and its modest saltbox house.

The operation then was moved from the church basement to the new property, and Boaz House was born. The house is named for a Biblical figure who helped widows in the Book of Ruth.

McIntyre said she is overwhelmed every year with the results of Mars’ coat drive.

“I can’t believe the generosity of the people. It’s hard to put into words,” she said. “We don’t expect that many, then it just grows and grows.”

McIntyre said Boy and Girl Scout troops, the Rotary club members, Kiwanis club members, women’s club members and churches also donate to Boaz House. McIntyre said Mars High School has been a steadfast source of winter coats for the needy.

“The school has been a wonderful support to us all through the years,”McIntyre said. “We are very thankful.”

The importance of giving is not lost on Mars junior Kayla Nanna or senior Lauren McDonnell, two student council members who help with the coat drive.

Nanna has been involved in the drive for the two years she has attended Mars, where she moved from Cleveland, Tenn. She agreed with Rose regarding the nature of the average Mars area citizen.

“When I came to Mars, I realized people got involved,” Kayla said. “I could really see people reaching out to help others.”

She said the families’ generosity carries over to student council meetings.

“I like how student council likes to think of new ideas on how they can get out there and help the less fortunate,” Kayla said.

She said she learned the importance of charity at home.

“My parents have always put others first and helped as many people as they can,” she said. “That’s how I was raised.”

Lauren has been involved in the coat drive all four of her years at Mars High School. She said the drive is just one example of the many community projects sponsored by student council each year.

“We need to help others who are not as fortunate as us,” Lauren said, “and kids need to be more involved in the community.”

Lauren, who donated a stylish red and black ski coat, said she attends a church in inner-city Pittsburgh.

“So I have seen firsthand how bad the needy have it,” she said.