Homeless awareness at Bishop McNamara
Published Dec 14, 2007Bishop McNamara High School prides itself on the academic achievement of its students, but unfortunately does not receive as much recognition for the many community service projects in which students participate. Throughout the school year “Mac” students can be seen collecting canned food and winter coats for the Salvation Army, personal care items for foster children and educating others through the Human Rights club.
This month McNamara is holding its third annual Homeless Awareness Sleepout. The purpose of this event is to foster awareness within Mac students as to the plight of the many homeless people and to do it during harsh conditions. On Dec. 9, 40-50 students with faculty and adult chaperones were expected to gather on the campus and sleep in boxes with minimal blankets for warmth. This year a blanket of snow covered the ground and it was bitter cold. Students convened at 5 p.m. to listen to homeless individuals speak on their experiences. Speakers from Harbor House also provided information to the students. The students received a “soup-kitchen” style meal along with bread and hot chocolate. During the evening the students broke into small groups to plan ways to help the community with this problem. And, oh yes, each and every student attending was in class on Monday morning.
The Homeless Awareness Sleepout brings attention to the homelessness in our area and allows students to experience first hand what too many experience daily. Hopefully it will impact the life of each student and inspire students to become involved in helping their community.
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