SHS students establish 'Compassion Closet' to help homeless students

Organizers hope to provide a private, welcoming space where their homeless students can access clothing, personal care supplies, shoes, and accessories. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Students from Spaulding High School have established a Compassion Closet to assist homeless students in obtaining essential items they may struggle to access otherwise.

The initiative aims to foster a more inclusive and supportive community within the school.

"In a world where kindness often feels like a rare currency, lending a hand to others is the truest measure of our humanity," said Ava Sutton, one of the students involved in the project.

With the support of Principal Justin Roy, the group has worked to ensure the project's sustainability, even after they graduated on Friday.

Organizers hope to provide a private, welcoming space where their homeless students can access clothing, personal care supplies, shoes, and accessories. The school's guidance counselors will manage access to the Compassion Closet to ensure privacy and confidentiality.

According to research, students perform best academically when their basic needs are met. By providing necessities, the Compassion Closet allows students to focus fully on their education without the distraction of unmet needs.

The Rochester Rotary Club generously provided initial funding for the Compassion Closet, however, students are seeking donations of NEW items, including:

• T-shirts, sweatshirts
• Pants, shorts
• Socks, underwear, bras
• Hair accessories (brushes/combs, clips, ties)
• Shoes
• Makeup, cologne, perfume
• Personal care supplies (shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, razors, tampons, pads, etc.)
• Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags

For more information or to make a donation, please email shscompassioncloset@gmail.com.