12:30pm | In response to the rise in homelessness among students in Long Beach, which as of the 2010-11 school year has reached approximately 5,300 students, Occupy Long Beach will be holding a donation drive between January 29th and February 12th.
“Just as we raise our collective voice to effect change within our government we raise our arms to embrace all members of our community.” says Mary Ellen Hobbs of Occupy Long Beach.
“What we’ve known in the Long Beach Unified School District for a long time is that all children can achieve at high levels when given the right support, no matter how much the odds are stacked against them,” said Chris Steinhauser, superintendent of schools. “One of the most important things we do is to give our homeless children a chance to make something better of their lives. The key to their brighter future—as Mary McLeod Bethune knew so well—is a good education”
Occupy Long Beach is asking for donations of:
- Athletic or closed toe shoes
- Socks
- Jackets/Zip-up sweatshirts/Hoodies (clothing should be plain without print or text)
Donations are for children grades K-12 in all sizes and must be new.
Donations will be given directly to Long Beach students in coordination with the Bethune Transitional Center and the LA County Office of Education, Student Support Services.
Drop off locations and hours:
Bixby Park (Corner of Broadway and Junipero)
Beginning Sunday, January 29th, 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Monday – Friday 5:00pm – 8:00pm,
Saturday – Sunday 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Urban Cottage, 4121 Long Beach Blvd.
Wednesday – Saturday, 11:00am – 5:00pm
Drive ends Sunday, February 12th