- April 19, 2024
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Seventh-grader Nina Valenti didn't have much exposure to what it was like to be homeless — until she visited a shelter for herself.
"I had really had no idea," she said. "I didn't know what it was like."
Touring the facilities of Halifax Urban Ministries gave Valenti and the 12 other Ormond Beach Middle School students a peek into what it's like to be homeless. Having that image made them feel even more inclined to help; though they already had.
I think that ultimately the Votran passes aren't thought of as a need. Transportation isn't seen as a need. But they have to get to job interviews and doctor appointments, so they are needs." Jennifer Valenti, Ormond Beach Middle School PTSA President
Thanks to the organization of the school's counselors and teachers, the entire student body raised $401 through their Stars for the Star Center program to purchase 245 Votran passes. For the past six years, the school has been selling paper star ornaments are for a 25 cents donation. The students then personalize their stars, and use them to decorate the main office during December.
"Every year we deliver the passes to the homeless center staff," said sixth-grade school counselor Lisa Edwards in an email, "and every year they tell us they have run out of the bus passes. We're not sure how they were going to meet the need through the end of the year."
The drive ended Dec. 11, and a group of students visited HUM's facility Dec. 15 to see how a homeless person lives and to give them the donations.
"It's very important to do a variety of community service projects," said Tara Fatta, eighth-grade school counselor. "It helps kids connect with their community and gives them perspective to the holiday season. On the ride over a student said how they want to be more involved. They see the reality of how muc help is really needed."
