We are so proud to introduce Railyn Ward, a 7th-grade student at Lefors ISD, who has a heart of gold!
Railyn has taken it upon herself to make a difference in the lives of families who may be going through difficult times. So far, she has raised an incredible $1,800, which has been used to purchase $100 United Supermarkets gift cards for families needing a little extra help with groceries.
Railyn, along with the help of a faculty member from Lefors ISD, created the C.A.R.E (Clothing and Resource Exchange) program which focuses on lending a helping hand to whoever needs it, whether it be to her fellow classmates or to her community as a whole.
These are her own words regarding the sole mission of C.A.R.E., and what it means to always show kindness and how better the world would be if we all came together to help those in need.
“My name is Railyn Ward, and I am a 13-year-old girl living in Pampa, Texas located in the Panhandle. I’m currently raising funds for fellow students who need financial assistance with food, clothes, shoes, or anything else they need to make it through the month comfortably. Why did I start this program? I was inspired by a few fellow students (who I wish to keep anonymous.) I witnessed them coming to school without shoes, clothes that are too small, or hungry. I saw a need and felt compelled to figure out a way to help. I went home and developed a plan.
“I called a faculty member and asked for his guidance in helping me create C.A.R.E. Donnie Winegeart is an outstanding member in our community; he is not only a teacher, coach, and friend to all students at Lefors ISD, but he is also a role model in what it means to C.A.R.E. with is continued generousity and willingness to lend a helping hand. I went around town and spoke with local businesses and went to work collecting monetary donations as well as items to help the cause. So far this month, I have collected $1,500 as well as gift certificates and other items. All the money is turned into Donnie who purchases clothing, shoes, school supplies, and groceries for students and families in need.
“While I am very proud of what I have accomplished in helping my community, my dream and goal is to see C.A.R.E. become an everyday thought in communities and schools nationwide. I believe that by helping strengthen the young people of our great nation while working together can build an unstoppable generation of willingness to not only push ourselves to do great, but also lend a hand when we see someone in need. Building confidence in our youth will benefit the world in many ways. When a child is clothed, fed, and knows they are cared for, they can focus more on studies, athletic programs, and developing confidence to create. If we could all work together to help our neighbors, then I believe we can shape a generation that works together to strengthen not only ourselves, but each other.”
But she isn’t stopping there! Railyn is also collecting donations to put together baskets filled with clothing, shoes, hygiene products, and other necessities for families in need.
What an amazing example of kindness, compassion, and selflessness at such a young age!
Railyn, we are SO proud of you and the difference you are making in our community! We are even prouder to call you one of our very own Lefors Pirates!
Once a Pirate, Always a Pirate!
