East Ridge and Woodbury High School Soccer Programs Team Up to Help Fight Food Insecurity
East Ridge and Woodbury High School Soccer Programs Team Up to Help Fight Food Insecurity
Born from a commitment to strengthen community connections, athletes from the East Ridge team reached out to the Woodbury team to partner on a fundraiser benefiting SoWashCo CARES Education Foundation. The teams at both high schools collected donations to help students experiencing food insecurity. The project allowed student-athletes to learn about food and housing insecurity and experience how to advocate, mobilize, and support their community.
The teams even turned it into a fun competition by encouraging their families and fans to donate in support of Team East Ridge or Team Woodbury. The fundraiser culminated at last week’s annual soccer derby, where $1025 ($590 ERHS/$435 WHS) and a full barrel of ready-to-eat meals and snacks were donated to SoWashCo CARES. The donation money will go toward purchasing over 1000 ready-to-eat meals and snacks.
“I think it’s also important to highlight that this is such a beautiful moment in high school sports. Competition doesn’t always bring out the best in people. These athletes are eager to work together for this mission. We’re all so proud of them.” said Shireen Sakizadeh, President of the East Ridge High School Soccer Booster Club.
SoWashCo CARES was chosen as a partner because it is a community-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting the students and community of South Washington County Schools (SoWashCo Schools). The nonprofit focuses on four program areas: Basic Needs, Access to Opportunities, Staff Appreciation and Community Building. Throughout the year, SoWashCo CARES works with social workers and school administrators to help fill the food gaps for students experiencing food insecurity. The donations will be distributed to students at SoWashCo high schools and the Next Step/Pathways transition program. Learn more about SoWashCo CARES at sowashcocares.org.