STRUTHERS — The Struthers Wildcats football team will be preparing for the holidays by collecting donations to assist families in need in the community.

As part of a “Christmas with the Wildcats” program, items and donations collected will go to the families. The football team and staff will buy, wrap and deliver gifts to those in need, Mayor Catherine Cercone Miller stated during her report at Monday’s council meeting.

The session was early this week because of Thanksgiving.

Those mailing checks for the “Christmas with the Wildcats” effort are asked to send them to Struthers football, 111 Euclid Ave., Struthers, OH 44471.

In addition, Struthers Rotary Club is hosting a drive to collect toiletries and other assorted items to fill pantry shelves at the high school and middle school. Items needed include deodorant, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, hand soap, bottled water and feminine products, along with long-sleeved sweatshirts and T-shirts, as well as winter hats and gloves.

Those wishing to donate items can give them to any Rotarian or drop them off at city hall or Premier Bank. Another dropoff is set for 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 3 at Mauthe Park, 156 Smithfield St.

For further information, email Mary Ann Morell at mambskts@zoominternet.net.

Also in the report was information about the Phipps Family Memorial, which will be hosting a chili cookoff 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 11 at AMVETS Post 44, 305 Elm St. The gathering also will include a coat drive for Struthers children.

Drop-off boxes will be at city hall and Post 44 through Dec. 10. For more information, go to the Phipps Family Memorial’s Facebook page.

In addition, the third annual Holiday Lights contest will get underway at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 and run through Dec. 13.

The holiday-themed event is open to all Struthers City Schools residences or businesses. Decorations must be completed by Dec. 5.