Delivering the Sweetness: Community Valentine Drive Brings Love & Friendship to Migrant Students

Hillsborough County, FL — Roses are red, friendship is cool—and thanks to the generosity of Girl Scouts and community partners across Tampa Bay, hundreds of elementary students in Hillsborough County’s Migrant Education Program will once again be able to fully participate in Valentine’s Day classroom celebrations.

The annual Valentine’s Kit Collection, led by You Matter to ME in partnership with the Hillsborough County Public Schools Migrant Education Program, is underway with a goal of 425 Valentine kits—one for each migratory elementary student currently enrolled.

Last year’s project, Delivering Sweetness Through Tampa Bay, demonstrated just how powerful community collaboration can be. What began as an ambitious goal was not only met, but exceeded, as additional students arrived in the program during the season. More than 650 Valentine kits were ultimately collected and delivered, ensuring every student had Valentines to share with classmates and teachers.

“This project brings an incredible amount of joy—not just to the students who receive the kits, but to everyone who helps make it happen,” said Liz Richeson, Service Coordinator for the drive. “Seeing our community come together with kindness, generosity, and teamwork to support migratory families is truly something special.”

How the Community Can Help

Girl Scout troops, youth groups, businesses, and individuals are invited to “adopt” 5, 10, 15, or more students by donating new, unopened Valentine boxes (minimum 24-count with a small treat, such as a toy or sucker). These kits allow students to fully participate in school Valentine exchanges—something many would otherwise be unable to do.
Ways to Participate

• SignUpGenius: https://www.signupgenius.com/g...
• Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/registr...
  
  

Student Service Hours Available

Students may earn volunteer hours for learning about the Migrant Education Program, organizing donations, collecting kits, and assisting with delivery. Volunteer logs will be signed at drop-off.

Important Information

• Donation Deadline: Saturday, January 31
• Preferred Items: New Valentine boxes, 24-count or more, with a built-in treat
• Contact: Liz Richeson, 813-323-1253 (call or text)

The Migrant Education Program serves students whose families travel seasonally for agricultural work—families who are essential to sustaining the region’s farming and food supply. Through this project, the community sends a clear message to every child: You matter. You belong.
🍓💌 Delivering Sweetness Through Tampa Bay—one Valentine at a time.

About You Matter to ME

You Matter to ME is a community-based organization dedicated to spreading kindness, inclusion, and support to students and families facing hardship in Hillsborough County. Through service projects, partnerships, and outreach initiatives, You Matter to ME works to ensure that every child feels valued, supported, and connected to their community.

About the Hillsborough County Migrant Education Program
The Hillsborough County Migrant Education Program supports students whose families relocate seasonally for agricultural and related work. The program provides academic assistance, advocacy, and resources to help ensure educational continuity and success for migratory children and youth.