News

Monday, February 22, 2010

Adams students make a difference by making fleece blankets for the homeless

Kelly Lawrence, current A-OK (After School Opportunities for Kids) employee, and Eliza Chon, former employee, in addition to being third year UCSB students were inspired by a UCSB multicultural event regarding the issue of homelessness on skid row. After hearing and visually seeing some of the personal struggles that the homeless community faces on a daily basis, Kelly and Eliza felt compelled to help. Together they developed and implemented a project to educate Adams’ A-OK students about breaking down negative stereotypes to help students realize just how fortunate they are to have a permanent place to call home. The two UCSB students combined their financial resources and walked UCSB’s residence halls to request funding to purchase fleece material so that students in the A-OK Program could make blankets for those who have been displaced from their homes. The two began by having educational conversations with the A-OK students about the growing issue of homelessness. Approximately 30 students were inspired by their talks and wanted to make fleece blankets for those who are less fortunate. Not only did the students learn how to make blankets, they also learned that service projects can be fun. The students have a strong desire to seek other opportunities to continue to give back to their community. This week 20 fleece blankets, handmade by Adams A-OK students, will be delivered to Transition House.