JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The I'm a Star Foundation raised $62,427 in a fundraiser to end student homelessness, exceeding their $50,000 goal and making it the highest total raised in the history of their Jacksonville HELPS (Homeless Students Empowered Through Leadership, Partnerships and Service) initiative.
The organization donated the funds to Duval County Public Schools on Monday. The donation will benefit the 3,203 local unhoused children who live in shelters, hotels, with relatives, or on the streets.
The I'm a Star Foundation is a volunteer program that focuses on transforming students into the next generation of servant leaders.
Middle and high school student volunteers raised money through the ticketed 7th annual JaxHELPS Celebrity game that was held in July. Students also went door-to-door, received money from businesses, and an anonymous donor.
The proceeds will go towards rental deposits, doctor and dental fees, school uniforms, toiletries, food vouchers, bedding, sports equipment, school supplies, and graduation, SAT, ACT and college application fees, according to the news release.
Since 2012, 'I’m A Star' students have raised and donated $188,927 to the district’s Students in Transition Department.
*The following video is from a previous newscast*
