Homeless summit + news article + NPR = Community Angel Tree project

[Kyoko]

We had this huge summit in November to discuss about suburban poverty and homelessness here in Pittsburgh. Local major news paper wrote the article, and NPR had segment in regard to this summit.

A group of local YMCA staff read this article and listen to the NPR, and was absolutely shocked to know the numbers of homeless families we have in our school district. Because most of people are not literary sleeping on the street, they never realized the level of significance.

In early December, they ( YMCA ) came to the school district to offer partnership, and we discussed about what they may be able to offer to the homeless families. Ideas included free locker space with locks, use of shower, etc...

They stated that they wanted to do the angel tree for the Christmas.. I thought that the time was kind of tight, but we decided to give it a shot.

I submitted total of 171 individuals' age and gender and as of today, all of the tag/ ornament for the individuals has been picked!!! I am so excited about this.

Also Aeropostale in the local mall donated 45 teddy bears as well !!! ( one of our graduate is a store manager there, and he also read the article )

I am so happy that the summit raised the awareness to the local issues and people are willing to pitch in to work together!

We will be distributing the gifts this coming Sunday. I am so thankful.

Best gift for the holiday, ever!

[Kyoko]

Over 171 individuals received  the gifts today. Ripple is a good thing to make.....

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

"And so this is Christmas." John Lennon.  A wonderful project, Kyoko.  This is an invisible, growing and heartbreaking problem. 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

This is what Christmas is all about....thanks for sharing.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

What a great project and so glad it worked out so well. Way to go!!

[DJ & Chance]

What a great project!

[F, Calla & Luca]

What a wonderful, caring project. I think you all are terrific!