SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – Winters can be tough in South Dakota, especially for new families who aren’t used to the cold yet.
That’s why students at Washington High School are hosting a coat drive for WHS families in need who may not be prepared with proper gear.
Until Friday, students can bring in gently used or new coats, hats and gloves to their first period class.
“I’ve been in times like that where you just need help, and it just brings us joy being able to see people get the stuff they need and, like, honestly, just the equipment they need to survive the harsh winters that South Dakota can have,” junior student council member James Sindjeu said.
Families of Washington students who are new to South Dakota, many of whom are new to the United States as well, can pick out coats at the school’s English Language Potluck Dec. 16. The school is hoping to get at least 80 coats for students and their families.
“During the potluck, we’re just helping with the little kids and managing them, having that time away so that the parents could also have a little break themselves,” sophomore student council member Isriel Tereda said.
She added that the student council puts a big emphasis on the culture at Washington and connecting students with resources.
Since the drive started on Monday, junior Dveyoun Bonwell-Witt said he’s seen students bring in additional items than what the student council hasn’t been asking for.
“It’s not even just winter stuff,” he mentioned. “It’s kind of just things people may need to get by, you know.”
Bryan Aukerman, an English teacher and family engagement coordinator, said this is the second year the school is doing the coat drive, but the first time they’re including the student body and student council in the process.
Bonwell-Witt said the student council’s involvement is a reflection of the culture at Washington and people’s willingness to help their community.
“Coming together as a school and as a collective group and doing something for people who just might not have the opportunities,” “Generosity and belonging plays a big part. That’s something that we always go by, it’s part of our Warrior Way.”
Lincoln High School is also hosting a winter clothing drive. Their biggest needs right now are men’s and women’s sweatpants, backpacks, gym shorts, leggings, winter jackets, towels and graduation gowns. Items can be brought to LHS’s front office.
