Sunday, January 12, 2025
After witnessing the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, which tore through the Southeastern U.S. in late September, fourth-grade students at Ulysses Byas Elementary School in the Roosevelt School District took action to help those in need by launching a donation drive.
“We are very proud of these students for trying to help their fellow Americans during their time of need,” said Ulysses Byas Principal Angela Leconte. “They are truly striving to be globally ready.”
The students began by writing persuasive essays to encourage their peers, teachers, and staff to contribute to the cause and spread awareness of their relief efforts.
They visited each classroom in the school to read their essays, educating their peers about the aftermath of the hurricane. To further motivate others, they designed and displayed posters throughout the hallways, urging everyone to bring necessary supplies to a donation station at the school.
Through their collective efforts, the students gathered dozens of boxes filled with baby diapers, baby wipes, canned food, water, cleaning supplies, and other essential items.
They also raised $400, which will be used to purchase additional supplies for hurricane victims.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September, leaving a trail of destruction from Virginia to Florida.
The storm knocked out power, destroyed roads and bridges, and caused severe flooding. Schools in the affected areas only began reopening last month, and drinkable tap water was recently restored to some communities.
The efforts of Ulysses Byas Elementary School students will provide much-needed relief and support to those impacted by the hurricane as they work to rebuild their lives.
For more information about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, visit their website at www.rooseveltufsd.org or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.
