Local students bring Christmas joy to those who need it most

December 16, 2014

Hart and Shelby high school students listen to Mary Husid who is on the board of directors for Every Woman's Place/Webster House. Husid thanked the students for giving their time and energy and let them know how much their efforts mean to the youth who will receive the donated stockings and baskets. Christmas cards are also being sent to the Veterans Home in Grand Rapids.

Hart and Shelby high school students listen to Mary Husid, a member of the board of directors for Every Woman’s Place/Webster House. Husid thanked the students for their time and energy and told them how much their efforts mean to the youth who will receive the donated stockings and baskets. Christmas cards are also being sent to the Veterans Home in Grand Rapids.

NORTH MUSKEGON — Sonya Hernandez is passionate about helping others in need, so she organized a work bee of Hart and Shelby high school students at her North Muskegon home Sunday, Dec. 14, to assemble gift packages, stuff stockings and make cards for those less fortunate.

Five students, who participated in the Promesa Summer Success Program, acted like Santa’s elves by eagerly putting donations together for Webster House and preparing Christmas cards for the Grand Rapids Home For Veterans.

Webster House, which operates in conjunction with Every Woman’s Place, helps runaway teens in Muskegon, Oceana and Newaygo counties through various support programs, including a 24-hour crisis line. Every Woman’s Place assists local women

Students search the Internet on their phones for inspirational quotes to include in their messages to the homeless youth and veterans.

who are victims of domestic violence. “Every Woman’s Place and Webster House Youth Services are here to strengthen families,” states the EWP website. “Our programs range from domestic violence prevention to youth programs geared toward helping youth make positive decisions about their lives.”

Hart High School students Nick Ponce, Amanda Ponce and Diana Giles and Shelby High School students Angel Rodriguez and Sarah Martinez enthusiastically helped their mentor with her mission.

“We want to bring attention to the need — to not forget certain populations, especially during the holidays,” said Hernandez, a Ferris State University adjunct professor.

Donations are still needed at the Webster House — call 231-759-7909 to help. To assist the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, call 616-364-5389.

“Give those you encounter the ROOTS to develop strength.

Give them WINGS to fly to the highest peak.

Give them LOVE and NURTURE their confidence.

For each person we encounter, may one day have the opportunity

To return the gift.”

-By Sonya Hernandez, “Agent of Change”