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FFA holiday store raises $53K

FFA holiday store raises $53K

Elizabeth Eisermann and Gregory Drumm bought their Christmas tree at the FFA holiday store last month.

Kellie Eisermann

FALLS VILLAGE — The Housatonic Valley FFA holiday store closed out 2025 with a profit of about $53,000.

A total of 643 Christmas trees, 462 poinsettias and 798 wreaths were sold, along with roping, kissing balls, centerpieces and dairy products.

Proceeds support local food banks and nonprofit organizations and help fund FFA leadership conferences, competitions and conventions.

All Housatonic Valley Regional High School students enrolled in agriculture education classes participated in the holiday sales and marketing unit. Each student was required to complete eight hours of work in the holiday store outside of class and to sell a minimum of $100 in products.

Students learned to identify and care for Christmas trees and poinsettias, create holiday products, operate a point-of-sale system, and assemble wreaths. Throughout the holiday sales and marketing unit, students developed career-ready leadership skills by managing real-world business operations, from inventory logistics to customer relations.

By the end of the unit, students had built communication skills, a strong work ethic, hands-on sales experience and a collaborative mindset.

Through the continued support of the Housatonic Valley Regional High School community — whether by purchasing items, donating greens or participating in production nights — the Holiday Store remains a cornerstone of the program’s success. The fundraiser not only supports the local FFA chapter, but also strengthens connections between students and the community while spreading holiday spirit.

Kellie Eisermann
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