Students at Kenowa Hills High School have united to create a charitable initiative called “Hope in a Bag,” aimed at providing essential items to those experiencing homelessness. Inspired by his grandmother’s teachings on the importance of giving, junior Brennan Pete initiated the club to help those in need in their community.
During the holiday season, Brennan’s family traditionally packs hygiene items and non-perishable snacks to distribute to those struggling with homelessness. This personal experience motivated him to speak with Nate Robrahn, the school’s principal, about establishing a dedicated charity club. Within two months, nearly 60 students signed up, and around 40 attended the first meeting, where they packed an impressive 250 bags.
Community Engagement and Impact
The students have demonstrated remarkable dedication, packing an additional 300 bags in their December meeting. These bags contain necessary items such as socks, soap, toothbrushes, and sanitary products, which are delivered to local organizations like Family Promise of West Michigan that support individuals facing varying degrees of homelessness. Brennan has set an ambitious goal of reaching 1,000 bags by the end of the school year.
As the club’s president, Brennan manages inventory, connects with local businesses for donations, and promotes their mission throughout the school and wider community. To date, the club has raised $650 in donations, which has significantly aided their efforts to fill the bags.
“It’s not about us; it’s about our initiative,” Brennan stated. He expressed joy in witnessing the community’s eagerness to contribute. “Honestly, I think my favorite part is seeing the amount of people who actually want to help. We started this whole thing to help people.”
Call for Donations
The “Hope in a Bag” club is actively seeking donations to continue their mission. They are collecting items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap bars, tissues, hand sanitizer, feminine products, body wipes, socks, deodorant wipes, hand warmers, and gallon bags. For snacks, they welcome pretzels, fruit snacks, trail mix, granola bars, and cheese crackers.
Additionally, the club appreciates new or gently used items like blankets, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, coats, and pants or sweatpants. Donations can be mailed or dropped off at Kenowa Hills High School, located at 3825 Hendershot Avenue NW, labeled for “Hope in a Bag.” Checks should be made out to “Kenowa Hills Public Schools,” and items can also be purchased from the club’s Amazon Wish List.
Brennan encourages other students to consider starting similar initiatives in their own schools. “It’s a lot of stuff to think about, so you have to have the passion for it,” he advised. “Even if you’re making a small impact, you’re making an impact.” The initiative exemplifies how a dedicated group of students can come together to make a meaningful difference in their community, especially during the holiday season and beyond.
