This past Saturday, Stephen Wise Temple Center for Tikkun Olam partner L.A. Family Housing (LAFH) hosted its first annual Fuel For School Festival in Pacoima, with Wise members Emily and Brian Soloway leading the charge.
The event, conceived by the Soloways, aimed to not only excite underserved and struggling families about the upcoming school year, but to provide them with much-needed supplies through donations and purchases made off of a special Amazon Wish List. About three dozen children and nearly as many parents attended the event, which included games, carnival treats, and stations where children could stock up on backpacks, school supplies, and shoes.
“Many Wise families donated items off the Amazon Wish List that the Soloways created,” said Rabbi Ron Stern, head of the Center for Tikkun Olam. Stephen Wise Temple families purchased about 25% of the items on that LAFH wish list, which was completed in time for the event.
“We are really happy with the event’s success and look forward to continuing our involvement with L.A. Family Housing,” Brian said. “We are grateful for all the support from the Wise community.”
Along with the items donated, the Soloways raised $35,000 to donate to L.A. Family Housing.
If you are interested in contributing to L.A. Family Housing, the organization is currently looking to collect items for welcome home baskets, such as cleaning supplies, bedding, and light decor. Please reach out to Rabbi Ron if interested.
About L.A. Family Housing: LA Family Housing is a tremendous organization that helps people transition out of homelessness and poverty through a continuum of housing enriched with supportive services. Its vision is to be a leader in providing solutions to end homelessness.