Students make a strike against homelessness

Every pin counts because every dollar counts.

Religious education students from Resurrection Parish, Allouez, joined other area sixth, seventh and eighth graders in raising funds for the NEW Community Shelter in Green Bay at the Annual Youth Bowlathon for the Homeless at the Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley.

The students collected pledges per pin and flat fee pledges. The event, presented by Interact Travel, raised $15,012 for the shelter.

"Our focus for religious education this year is studying Catholic values, service and justice," explained Sue Stabilit, a catechist at Resurrection who organized the bowlathon group. "We want the kids to learn more about service and how they can make a difference in their parish and community. It took some convincing getting some of the kids to get up on a Saturday morning, but I was happy with our turnout."

While the event, which included pizza, soda and prizes, was designed to be fun, it also provided education about the services of the shelter. Tours of the NEW Community Shelter and information were provided. The shelter averages 50 to 60 new intakes per month and shelters nearly 700 different people each year. Approximately 3,000 meals are served each month through the shelter's community meal program.

The students also learned how their contributions from the bowlathon make a difference. Only one dollar per week provides a man, woman or child with fresh milk at the shelter. Only two dollars per week provides a person with hot nutritious meals. A contribution of $10 per week provides one client with food, shelter and professional services for the average time of stay of 17 days at the shelter.

"It was another good opportunity to reach out to help others," said Stabilit. "We've also brought serenity bracelets to the Golden House and raked leaves this year."

"It was fun," said seventh grader Lisa Schuette. "We read stories about teenagers helping those in need in class. It feels good to help the homeless."