by Jaden Sanders
The Paducah Sun
December 3, 2025
Used with permission.
PADUCAH — Ava Russell, a senior at Paducah Tilghman High School, has launched a toy drive at the school throughout the month of December.
The drive will accept new and used toys, which can be dropped off at Paducah Tilghman High School. Russell said she was inspired to start the drive by the great need she’s seen in the community while working with Starfish Orphan Ministry and abroad on five service trips to El Salvador.
Russell said one of the unique aspects of this toy drive is that it accepts used toys in good condition, and not just new ones. She said she made the decision to accept used toys so a wider range of people, especially students, can participate in giving.
“I figured a used toy drive would create an opportunity for students who might not have the financial means to donate,” Russell said.
Russell said she hopes the drive not only helps children in need but encourages a spirit of giving among her classmates.
“It’s a complete honor and a privilege,” Russell said. “I’m of the belief that if you’re in the position to be able to give, it’s your duty to give. I’m just trying to spread that ideology, because there’s plenty of people that I’m surrounded by that are just unaware of opportunities to give. I’m trying to make the opportunity more available.”
Russell said that the drive is open to all kinds of toys, and people who are interested in donating should just shop as they would for a child in their life.