VALDERS, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – As devastation continues to unfold in Ukraine, high school students in Valders are doing what they can to help.
Taylor Hammel is one of the students assisting in the drive.
On Monday, the district began receiving donations that have quickly been filling up boxes.
“I could not imagine going through that,” said Hammel. “I don’t know, seeing them suffering just makes me want to help even more.”
She tells FOX 11 that bringing in non-perishable food items, hygiene products and other essential supplies remind her to not take things for granted.
“To see other kids, younger kids, in Ukraine that are struggling, and they are your age. You just want to give back to them to make sure they’re safe and have everything they need as well.”
Elementary students have created artwork to send as well. Some are as simple as a sunflower, signifying peace. Others have written messages, hoping an end is in sight.
Social Studies teacher Tyler Martell says students show concern.
“It can be sometimes scary as an adult, so just imagining what’s going through the kids’ minds that they’re worried about some conflict. People they’ve never met, in a country they’ve probably never thought too much about.”
He says social media allows students to witness what’s going on first hand.
A tool that accelerated the need for the drive.
“The kids are on TikTok, they’re on Snapchat, they’re seeing the stuff play out right before their eyes and how can you not look at those images and the people suffering,” said Martell.
Martell also says the compassion and empathy showed by students has been felt through the entire school district.
Items collected will be trucked to Chicago, flown to Poland and then distributed to Ukrainians who need them.
