It was nearing Christmastime when “Charlie” and her family were evicted from their home with no place to stay. Fortunately, a family member invited them to temporarily share their home. Unfortunately, this home was out of the Crestdale school district where “Charlie” attended.
Communities In Schools (CIS) Site Coordinator stepped in to help. “I worked with Charlie’s mother to ensure transportation to and from school each day,” she said. “This mother was overwhelmed by her situation and extremely grateful for the help.”
The site coordinator continued to check in with Charlie’s family over the next few weeks. Soon they were on their way to a new home in a nearby apartment. Knowing they had limited funds, the site coordinator wanted to do something more, so she added their names to the list of families Crestdale would “adopt” for Christmas. “We organized a spirit week and invited students and teachers to dress for theme days and to donate to the cause,” she said. “The money was divided to provide gifts for four families.”
After Christmas break, Charlie sat down for lunch with her site coordinator. She couldn’t wait to tell her all about her wonderful Christmas and the presents she had received, including new clothes and makeup.
Studies show students who have their basic needs met, are better prepared to learn and succeed in school. Every day, CIS becomes an advocate for students in need and connects them with necessary resources for their physical and emotional well-being. Every day, CIS is making a difference Wayne County.