The gym may seem like just a place for exercise, pep rallies, and the occasional fine arts concert, but it will soon be used to make an impact in the greater community. On March 30, North Atlanta’s Peer Leadership class is hosting a new opportunity: Pack for a Purpose. This event aims to assist the homeless population around NAHS by gathering students, teachers, and community members to assemble hygiene bags for the homeless population in the NAHS community. One bag at a time, North Atlanta is ready to make a difference.
This event is more than the bags being created: it’s a way to address a significant issue in the community by providing a practical, tangible solution. By collecting toiletries like toothbrushes, deodorant, and soap, students can directly respond to hygiene insecurity and relieve the struggle for resources. In doing so, they help their unhoused neighbors in restoring cleanliness and dignity. Moreover, finding ways to help the community fosters connection and empathy, key traits for success in a divisive world, as senior Mikah Mason is well aware. “Giving back to the community is one of the best ways to develop compassion,” he said.
One of the cornerstones of Peer Leadership is unifying the school’s community. Accordingly, the diverse group of students in the class found ways to incorporate their various interests into the event. In addition to Operation Feed Atlanta, SouthSide Soul—a music-based youth empowerment program—and the Kappa League will support Pack for a Purpose. These connections will both allow Peer Leadership to provide music and food at the event and amplify the impact of North Atlanta’s activism. Senior Omar Gause hopes that hosting this event will inspire others to do the same. “This expands beyond our school. When we participate, others will want to as well,” he said.
With homelessness rising steadily in the Atlanta area, combatting resource insecurity has become personal. Students are not making care kits for an unknown group, but for the individuals they see at intersections and on sidewalks in their neighborhoods. This intentional action allows homeless individuals to feel seen, forming bonds of connection that transcend the physical resources being provided. Senior Nyasha-Afi Herring wants to address the wake-up call of resource insecurity in a way that creates connection between students and demonstrates the personal level of serving the community. “Sitting down and creating care kits side by side is fulfilling,” she said.
By designating time to create hygiene care kits, Peer Leadership is recognizing the universal humanity of the often overlooked around North Atlanta. Join them on March 30 to see how small acts can make a big difference.
