Ulysses Byas Elementary School Assists Victims of Hurricane Helene

After hearing about the devastating impacts caused after Hurricane Helene tore through the Southeastern U.S. in late September, fourth-grade students at Ulysses Byas Elementary School in the Roosevelt School District sought to help those in need by starting a donation drive.

“We are very proud of these students for trying to help their fellow Americans during their time of need,” said Ulysses Byas Principal Angela Leconte. “They are truly striving to be globally ready.”

Students began by writing persuasive essays to encourage their peers, teachers and staff members to contribute to the cause and spread awareness of their relief efforts. Students visited each classroom in the building to read their persuasive essays and educate their peers about the aftermath of the hurricane. They also created posters they hung up throughout the hallways to inspire others to bring necessary supplies to a donation station at their school.

Thanks to their efforts, students collected dozens of boxes of baby diapers, baby wipes, cans of food, water, cleaning supplies and other essential items, in addition to $400 to go toward more supplies for the victims of the hurricane.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September and, in its wake, knocked out power, destroyed roads and bridges and caused severe flooding from Virginia to Florida. Schools in the hurricane’s path only reopened last month and drinkable tap water was only recently restored to some areas. The efforts of Ulysses Byas Elementary School will continue to help those impacted by the hurricane on their road to recovery.

To learn more about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, please visit the District's website at https://www.rooseveltufsd.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.