A big thank you from Family Support Specialist Acquinetta Williams
Below is a letter from Acquinetta Williams, the Family Support Specialist at Hawthorne Elementary, thanking Friends of Hawthorne as well as School Staff and other community members for their support. At a recent FOH PTA meting, it was mentioned that about 10% of students at Hawthorne experience some form of homelessness.
Over the years FOH has served several families at Hawthorne Elementary. As the Family Support Worker, I am thankful for the relationship we have and the partnership we have built in supporting our school community. Students and families have benefited from generous contributions that changed their lives considerably. Funds for homeless families have been used for deposits so families can move into temporary/permanent housing, to pay monthly rent when parents have lost their jobs, to secure payment on utility bills, to purchase blankets, heaters and bedding, and to provide food and clothing to keep them warm during the winter months.
Most recently, FOH assisted in securing shelter for two of our homeless families, which turned out to be the best gift ever. I must tell you how thankful I am to be a part of such a fabulous group of people. In addition, donations were provided from Hawthorne’s awesome staff and members of their families. As a collective group we secured motel accommodations for two weeks. When I went to the motel to deliver hot meals and gifts, it warmed my heart to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. All the kids were nestled up in one room; they had warmth, a TV, a refrigerator, and a microwave that I had requested from the motel. Additionally, the kids received tablets, Kindles, toys, and clothes from several very generous donors. The families were overwhelmed with appreciation, and it provided me with such a sense of fulfillment and relief that I could then go and enjoy my own family.
Your contributions make a difference. Every family needs a home and every child needs a place to feel safe and secure. Children who have a sense of “belonging” are free to learn, explore, and dream without fear.
On behalf of Hawthorne staff, students and families…..Thank you Thank you Thank you!
Yours truly,
Acquinetta Williams
Hawthorne Elementary
Family Support Worker
206-252-7218
ahebertwilli@seattleschools.org