BUSHLAND, TX (KFDA) –
A group of high school students from Bushland are being nationally recognized for their efforts to make a difference in the community.
They’re aspiring to be difference makers by embarking on projects that hope to make an impact in our community now and in the future.
Lead2Feed, an organization that empowers students to learn outside the classroom to meet a community need, rewarded Bushland students for their good deed after reading letters the kids sent in about their efforts throughout the community.
When they found out they won, the students were with their teacher and shared screams of joy.
“We didn’t really know what the phone call was for, but then we figured out what it was. We all got really excited,” said Luke Richard, a Difference Maker at Bushland High School. “It’s really nice to see that our work isn’t only recognized by our community but recognized on a national level.”
The group won $2,500 to give to an organization of their choice and a $1,000 technology grant for their school.
The students chose to donate to Martha’s Home after they spent hours, many of that time during weekends, remodeling the bathroom at the shelter for women.
“It honestly feels good because I know this impacts more than just a couple people,” said Trace Bailes, a Difference Maker at Bushland High School. “There will be a lot of people coming through here throughout the years and this is going to last a while for them.”
Martha’s Home said it’s grateful the students are returning once again because they serve as a beacon of hope for the women at the shelter.
“It’s wonderful of course for us to receive the contribution, but I’m really proud for them that they won this. It’s just very impressive and I’m so proud for them,” said Connie Garcia, Executive Director of Martha’s Home. “These young people are giving and loving and hard workers and they want to help. So it’s so encouraging to see.”
While the students are grateful to be recognized on a large platform, they said the smallest actions will continue to change lives for people who need it the most right where they call home.
“We’ve accomplished so much in the class and that’s kind of just an overall how we work and how we all work together as a team,” said Hailey Nash, a Difference Maker at Bushland High School.
Martha’s Home said that with a total of five homes and a house full of women, they’ll be sure to put the money to good use.
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