During a recent government meeting, local youth presented their community service project, a food drive aimed at supporting the nonprofit organization Feed the Need. The initiative, led by a group of youth ambassadors, will involve collecting non-perishable food items from designated boxes placed around city facilities, including gas stations and fire departments. The ambassadors emphasized their commitment to adhering to guidelines regarding acceptable food items and plan to regularly collect donations to ensure a continuous supply for those in need. The project received commendations from city officials, who expressed their support for promoting the initiative to maximize community engagement.

In another significant discussion, representatives from the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution introduced the Liberty Tree Project, which aims to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The project proposes the dedication of a Liberty Tree and accompanying stone memorial at the James C. Godwin Riverfront Park. The Liberty Tree symbolizes the revolutionary spirit and serves as a historical reminder of the events leading up to American independence. The representatives highlighted the educational and patriotic values of the project, noting that it would incur no costs to the city, as all expenses would be covered by the organization. The proposal aims to foster historical awareness and community pride in Palatka and beyond.

Both initiatives reflect a commitment to community service and historical preservation, showcasing the active involvement of local youth and organizations in enhancing the cultural fabric of the area.