West Ranch initiated a campaign to support the underprivileged in Los Angeles County by launching its Housing Drive Project, on Nov. 27th.
ASB members actively collected donations from students during brunch. The booth accepted donations ranging from jackets to soap bars. Junior and project founder Sophia Sadaqatmal, highlighted the need for certain items: “Gloves, hand warmers, beanies, masks, hand sanitizers, and blankets.” These insulative and hygienic items are crucial during winter, providing essential aid to the homeless who face cold and unsanitary conditions. West Ranch’s contributions could improve the lives of some of those who spend their holidays in shelters.
Sadaqatmal emphasized “our project’s purpose is to provide goods to people in homeless shelters during winter, a time of cold and loneliness.” The winter season often worsens the hardships of the homeless, who face the festive season while struggling for basic necessities. December brought celebrations but also shortages of food, clothing, medicine and shelter, compounded by harsh weather conditions.
Following November, numerous students, including junior Rayhana Sadaqatmal, had contributed to the cause. She shared her motivation: “My cousin Sophia informed me about this initiative, and I was eager to help the homeless during the holiday season of giving.” In the holiday spirit, other students like Sadaqatmal chose to give back and support those who were in need. Sophomore Elijah Kopp expressed a similar sentiment, stating “contributing to this cause makes me feel like I am part of a community and that I am making a positive impact.” Sophomore Somesh Sharma Sriprasanna, shared his enthusiasm: “I am thrilled that our school is trying to help those in need, and I want to contribute in any way I can.”
Students participating in the drive earned volunteer hours, with one NHS hour awarded for every three items donated, with a maximum capacity of two hours. The new initiative offered students the joy of helping others and a mean to fulfill their NHS requirements.
Sophia Sadaqatmal stated the goal and focus of the Project. “We hope to collect over a hundred items,” she said. “ “We will deliver the items during winter break to Bridge To Home in Newhall,” which is a homeless shelter.
