With more news of hurricanes and devastation, the Downers Grove District 58 school communities continue to provide support for those in affected areas. Read on for stories on how our students and schools are helping:
- A Whittier family is spearheading fundraising efforts for the Commonwealth of Dominica, which was hit by Hurricane Maria before it traveled north to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Vivian, third grade and Naya, kindergarten started Bracelets for Dominica, raising $635 from selling handmade bracelets made by the two and their friends. Their dad, Whittier parent Kofi James and his reggae group, the New Roots Band, held a benefit concert, raising $1,000. The family is also collecting needed supplies to pack a freight container headed to Dominica. More information can be found at https://www.youcaring.com/dominicahope
- Herrick Junior High held a variety of fundraisers to help those affected by Hurricane Irma. They asked for needed donations and also held a "hat day" and "pajama day" to raise monies for Hillsborough Education Fund to help repair a school in Florida damaged by Hurricane Irma.
- Belle Aire's Student Council made a donation to the UNICEF Fund to help those in Puerto Rico, which was devastated by Hurricane Maria. Belle Aire also held a fundraiser - "flip flops for Florida/crazy shoe day" - and raised more than $600 for the American Red Cross. "With every step we took, the students wanted to send our positive thoughts to those impacted," said Principal Brent Borchelt.