HONORING KING’S LEGACY — The Sycamore Youth Center held its annual Youth and Children’s Day celebration Jan. 17, featuring local youth remembering the legacy left by Martin Luther King Jr. Participants gathered and listened to musical performances by local artists, took part in a breakfast provided by Trinity Health System and put together more than 2,000 food bags for pupils attending East Garfield Elementary School. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Children and young adults from throughout the community came together at the Sycamore Youth Center Jan. 17 for a meaningful day of fellowship, celebration and service during the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Youth and Children’s Day celebration.

The event honored King’s legacy by combining food, entertainment and hands-on community service projects.

Participants spent the early afternoon sharing a meal, enjoying performances by young local artists and concluding the day by assembling more than 2,000 food bags for area children in need. The service project was meant to reinforce honoring King by putting faith, unity and action into practice.

The bags will be distributed throughout the upcoming semester during the Sycamore Friday Food Distribution, held at East Garfield Elementary School, where approximately 300 meals are provided weekly to students prior to their leaving school for the weekend.

The celebration featured youth-led performances, including hip-hop, mime and singing. Each performance reflected King’s vision of empowerment, creativity and service, according to Bobbyjon Bauman, Sycamore’s executive director.

The keynote address was delivered by Nickayla Wiggins of WTOV-TV, who encouraged young people to use their voices, their gifts and their compassion to make a difference in their communities.

Organizers expressed gratitude to the many volunteers and leaders who helped make the day possible. Food for the event was donated by Trinity Health System.