Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, is the final day to donate a gift card in any amount for students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence for our 2024 HEART Gift Card Drive.
We will, of course, accept gift cards and donations for HEART students at any time, but cards received by end of day Tuesday will be distributed to students before Winter Break.
We connected with a few individuals in our community who have made a commitment to support HEART. Read their stories and consider supporting our students who are experiencing homelessness.
“We run a ‘Trunk or Treat’ with our group of bikers every year and have for the last three years. During that time, all donations we receive in our jar, we donate it to HEART. Keyon (5th grade) was more than thrilled that we brought him with us to drop the donation off. He loves being part of the community of bikers and he loves his school. I wanted to teach him giving back is important because so many kids do not get the luxuries he does.” – Richelle Powell, Parent, Whitman Elementary School
“We care deeply about our community and believe extra care and compassion should be shown to the most vulnerable. Our children are our biggest hope and have the most potential to do good things in this world. We believe if we, as a community, can be more tender, more caring and more thoughtful, these young kids will have the opportunity for positive experiences in life that will lift them now and as they grow older.” – Jennifer Fillmore, Marketing Director, Eye Consultants
“Sacred Heart Catholic Church emphasizes outreach within our neighborhood as much as possible, so that certainly includes Grant Elementary School. The gift cards we have provided to the HEART program are dedicated to Grant students and their families. We are very pleased to participate in the SPS HEART program.” – Mary Kay Anderson, Social Ministry Committee, Sacred Heart Catholic Parish
“While many of our students look forward to the holidays, it can be a time of uncertainty for students experiencing housing insecurity. Purchasing gift cards for HEART to distribute to students lets our kids know that someone is thinking of them while the adults in their lives continue to focus on obtaining basic needs such as housing, clothing, and food. A gift card to a coffee shop or fast-food restaurant allows them go out with their friends and be part of a community. Contributing gift cards is a small gesture with a big impact.” – Beth Nye, Principal, Adams Elementary School