MPS students to camp outside Thursday to raise awareness of homelessnesss
MILWAUKEE - As many as 100 students at Milwaukee Public Schools’ Riverside University High School are set to sleep outside Thursday night to raise money for Habitat for Humanity and raise awareness about homelessness.
According to Milwaukee Public Schools, the students raised $3,800 for the cause in 2012.
"This year marks the 13th 'Box City' at Riverside, which has raised more than $60,000 in its history and resulted in the construction of two Habitat homes," according to MPS. "Those involved take part in simulations and talks that help them understand the difficulties of those who live without a home. The students are prepared for the temperatures, but will come inside if safety becomes an issue."
Students will begin setting up their boxes around 5 p.m. Thursday.
Senior Jerel Ballard, one of the student organizers of this year’s event, has participated all four years of his high school career.
“We really learn what it’s like to be homeless in the state of Wisconsin and the greater Milwaukee area,” said Ballard, 17. “Students talk about their own experiences. No one’s laughing or teasing. The environment is very supportive. Each year it gets better. I’m sad that this is my last year, but I will be coming next year to see how it turns out.”
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