Community involvement and giving back to the community in which they are located is an important part of Constellation Schools’ community schools. That is why it was such an honor for Constellation Schools: Eastside Arts Academy to be a recipient of Operation Warm coats.
On January 13th and 14th, 2021, 138 coats that were donated by an anonymous NBA player through Operation Warm, were distributed to Constellation Schools: Eastside Art Academy (EAA) students.
Crystal Bowens, a parent at Eastside Arts Academy said, “It was nice to know other people care about our kids when times are hard.”
Operation Warm’s mission is #morethanacoat. For over 20 years they “provide warmth, confidence and hope to children in need through the gift of brand-new winter coats. Through serving millions of children in need across North America, we have seen that a brand-new coat offers a child physical and emotional warmth, confidence to socialize and succeed, and hope of a brighter future.”
“I think it was a wonderful thing for the school to do on behalf of their students and their families. All of us are going through very challenging times right now, each in our own way. The coats were one less thing for us to worry about. The children are thrilled with them and I think that parents are relieved that their children will be warm and feel special because they have something that's new and just for them. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, kindness and generosity,” stated Kathy Sender, another EAA parent.
Constellation Schools: Eastside Arts Academy is located in the Slavic Village neighborhood of Cleveland. The school knows how important it is to give back to the community in which they educate children. This is why it was such an honor when they received the donation. They knew how much this would mean to their families.
“My family and I are very grateful for the staff at EAA, they are always going above and beyond. Applying for the Operation Warm Coat was just another amazing gesture of their kindness and shows how much they care for their students. Thank you,” said Jessica Goldsby, a parent at the school.
The Winston Family said, “Getting the coat was such a surprise! We were so happy to know the school was able to do this for every student! It felt like a great representation of the community. I love it. My son wanted to try the coat on right away! Thanks again!”