Students give up spring break to build permanent housing
Stamford, CT/ Ten middle and high school students from Stamford’s two charter schools will give up their spring break to help build permanent homes for Hurricane Katrina victims. They left early this morning and will be joined by several other groups coming in from around the country.
A 17-year-old junior at Stamford Academy Charter High School, Ladre Wilks is going on the trip because, “When I watched the hurricane on television, it made me very sad because so many people lost their homes and didn’t have anywhere to live. I want to go on this trip so I can help them.”
Their week of hard labor will include cultural outings in the city and region, including a visit to an authentic jazz club and a swamp tour. Ladre and nine other youth, who are in 8th through 12th grades at the schools, will be joined by four staff members.
Stamford Academy Director Mike McGuire noted, “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to see another part of the country while at the same time helping those less fortunate and the victims of one of the most devastating natural disasters of our time. We are eternally grateful to our dedicated staff for creating this experience for our students.”
Photos of the students at work in New Orleans, plus videos and interviews with students, will be available at www.domusblog.org during the week.
ABOUT DOMUS:
Domus helps over 600 children and their families experience academic and life success through two charter schools, supportive housing, and community outreach programs. Domus ensures that the children in its care meet their full potential by building loving, trusting relationships in structured, respectful environments. The Domus vision: No child shall be denied hope, love, or a fair chance in life. www.domuskids.org
