One Wilton High School student is trying to help homeless teens feel a little more ‘typically teen’ by organizing a “Teens for Jeans” donation effort. Kate Williams, a senior at WHS, is spearheading the Wilton drive as part of the global campaign sponsored by DoSomething.org.
According to DoSomething, more than a million young people experience homelessness in the US every year. One item they often request is a pair of jeans.
“I found out about the Teens for Jeans drive via the Internet. I was looking for scholarships and found this one and it piqued my interest. I wanted to get involved, not only for the scholarship, but also because it is giving me the chance to reach out to others and help them. That’s why this scholarship is so interesting, because it emphasizes the importance of giving back. Also it gives the chance for the community to get involved and for the school to benefit,” Kate explains.
She has set up collection boxes in the lobbies at Cider Mill School and Wilton High School (second floor lobby), as well as at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church on New Canaan Rd..
In addition, one local store has also offered to take part: Blue Star Bazaar is helping the mission. Anyone who donates a pair of gently used jeans for women, men, or kids at the store through Feb. 19 will receive 10-percent off any in-store purchase.
Kate will be bringing all donated jeans to a shelter in Valhalla, NY called “The Sanctuary.” Jeans of any size, color and gender are accepted.
Like Kate said, there’s a chance for Wilton High School to benefit as well. The school that collects the most jeans will win a $3,000 grant; second place is a $2,000, and third place is a $1,000. The student who organizes the effort will be entered for a chance to win a $5,000 scholarship for college.
The jeans collection will run through Friday, Feb. 19, which is the last day to donate.