School students help the homeless with campaign

Pupils at Joseph Leckie Academy, on Walstead Road West, Walsall, launched their own campaign working alongside the Homeless Angels, based in the town.

The idea was sparked by Nadine Burns, head of health and social care at the school.

She said: "Having seen people sleeping on the streets in Bloxwich I donated some food to Homeless Angels and the founder, Louisa Langford, said she would like to raise awareness about homelessness with young people.

"She spoke in assembly and Rebecca Adams and Isma Shamus from class 12BU decided they would like to help.

"We organised a collection of food, blankets, clothes and toiletries brought in by staff and pupils and we have been overwhelmed by how much has been donated to Louisa and her angels.

"This will go a long way to ensuring a safer, warmer and better fed Christmas this year for those less fortunate."

Principal Keith Whittlestone commended his students.

He added: "Our students understand and fully appreciate that fundraising can have great rewards not just in the amount raised for the charity but as a motivational, team building exercise for themselves as well as showing how our academy helps the community.

"Our students and staff have shown that they care for the homeless for whom this time of the year is particularly bleak.

"We hope this knowledge and understanding will surely stay with them for a very long time.

"By working together everyone who has contributed has shown that a little help goes a long way.

"Whether talking about volunteering precious time, money, clothing or food items.

"If we all do our part, even in a small way, it can add up to make a huge impact on others’ lives."