Newark's Inspiring School Laundromat On ‘Ellen Show’ (VIDEO)

NEWARK, NJ — The story of a Newark principal who fought bullying in his school by installing a free laundromat for in-need students continues to inspire donations and grins throughout the nation. The latest? A $50,000 gift from Cheerios and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”

During a recent episode of the show, Ellen DeGeneres announced the large donation for West Side High School, which at the suggestion of new principal Akbar Cook, recently installed washing machines and dryers for low-income students who were being bullied for wearing dirty clothes.

“We already did so many loads of clothes,” Cook enthusiastically told DeGeneres. “I’m so happy that we removed that barrier.” (Story continues below video)

A former vice principal of the school, Cook – a father of two – has become well-known for his stern-yet-caring presence in the lives of many of Newark’s youth.

He’s been an outspoken advocate for peace and anti-violence efforts in his hometown of Newark, where he was a driving force behind the "Lights On" program, which launched in 2016 after the tragic loss of a young Newark student to gun violence.

• See related article: Newark 'Lights On' Program Provides Shelter From Violence For Students

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Photos: Newark Public Schools