Gilbert Boy Scouts fill 83 backpacks for homeless students in Higley
News by You Submitted by Melanie Shaha, project specialist for Higley Unified School District.
Boy Scouts from Troop 689 delivered 83 backpacks full of school supplies for homeless students to Higley Unified School District on Tuesday.
The Scouts transformed their efforts on a simple merit badge for community service into a significant contribution for students in need.
"Once the Scouts realized they were helping children, they became driven!" said Lora Ruiz, mother of scout Nick Ruiz.
The Scouts were welcomed by Higley Superintendent Denise Birdwell, along with cabinet members and executive directors. Birdwell presented each of the Scouts with a certificate of appreciation.
"These young men demonstrated the true meaning of generosity," Birdwell said as she reflected on the Scouts serving a school district different from their own.
"Our district's purpose is to 'Connect, Engage, Inspire,' " she said. "We are grateful for the example and gifts from these Boy Scouts."
Boy Scouts Jackson Tobler, Garrett Oliekan, Chad Sult and Nick Ruiz organized the backpack/school-supply drive with the help of Scoutmaster Mike Dunn. Scouts and volunteers distributed 700 fliers to various neighborhoods and returned to collect donations.
"These Boy Scouts demonstrated what can be accomplished when you care about others and are willing to work," said Sylvia Zapata, HUSD homeless liaison. "These loaded backpacks will give needy students a great start to the new school year."
Last year, the Higley schools had 129 students who were classified as homeless. Some of those students live in the House of Refuge community on the Arizona State University Polytechnic campus, where homeless individuals and families are provided transitional housing and support services.
The Scouts will be attending South Valley Junior High in the Gilbert Public Schools district this year.
Boy Scouts from Troop 689 delivered 83 backpacks full of school supplies for homeless students to Higley Unified School District on Tuesday.
The Scouts transformed their efforts on a simple merit badge for community service into a significant contribution for students in need.
"Once the Scouts realized they were helping children, they became driven!" said Lora Ruiz, mother of scout Nick Ruiz.
The Scouts were welcomed by Higley Superintendent Denise Birdwell, along with cabinet members and executive directors. Birdwell presented each of the Scouts with a certificate of appreciation.
"These young men demonstrated the true meaning of generosity," Birdwell said as she reflected on the Scouts serving a school district different from their own.
"Our district's purpose is to 'Connect, Engage, Inspire,' " she said. "We are grateful for the example and gifts from these Boy Scouts."
Boy Scouts Jackson Tobler, Garrett Oliekan, Chad Sult and Nick Ruiz organized the backpack/school-supply drive with the help of Scoutmaster Mike Dunn. Scouts and volunteers distributed 700 fliers to various neighborhoods and returned to collect donations.
"These Boy Scouts demonstrated what can be accomplished when you care about others and are willing to work," said Sylvia Zapata, HUSD homeless liaison. "These loaded backpacks will give needy students a great start to the new school year."
Last year, the Higley schools had 129 students who were classified as homeless. Some of those students live in the House of Refuge community on the Arizona State University Polytechnic campus, where homeless individuals and families are provided transitional housing and support services.
The Scouts will be attending South Valley Junior High in the Gilbert Public Schools district this year.
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