Dozens of shoes, clothing items, household goods, hygiene products and furniture pieces went to Youngstown residents in need thanks to the Summit Academy – Youngstown Elementary Community Closet held April 2.
“We had an amazing turnout. Families of Summit Academy and members of the community enjoyed themselves and they are all looking forward to our next event,” says school Community Resource Coordinator Hycianna Grace. She adds that the school would like to host another community closet before the end of the year.
Grace reports that some 100 bags of items were donated to the closet by school families and community members. School administrators and staff, including Principal Rebecca Ellis, Madelyn Acevedo, Melissa Anzalone, Jessica Davis, Jamie Martin, Michael Prendergast and Jill Ronci volunteered their time working at the event.
Students Kaitlyn Berendt, Shawna Cobb and Eve Liggens also provided tremendous volunteer support, according to Grace. “They exceeded our expectations,” she says.
Prior to the event, students in grades 3 to 7 helped with organizing items for the closet. “We couldn’t be prouder of the work that our students accomplished in such a short amount of time,” Grace says. She adds that the school is deeply grateful to Rev. Steven Agostino “Father Steve” and St. Brendan Church for the much-needed space to host the event.
“This was a team effort, and I am glad that we were able to give back to the community,” Grace says.