The National Honor Society collected donations all last week to support Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students as they attempt to resume their school year following the harrowing shooting of Feb. 14. Senior Kelly O’Neill teamed up with Principal Michael Rewick and her fellow NHS members to raise money for the emotional support needed in Parkland Florida after the tragedy.

“What happened was an absolute tragedy, but hopefully with the money collected it can help ease their burden,” O’Neill says. “Their lives are forever changed.”

The money was collected Monday, March 5th, March 6th, and Monday, March 12th to Thursday, March 15th during the lunch periods five, six, and seven.

The collected amount totaled $620 thanks to the students and staff Hills.

“Overall, with the snow days, I think our school did a very good job donating their change to this cause,” commented O’Neill.

“[This is] extremely selfless for Kelly to take the initiative to raise money for a school full of students in need, everyone here should do their part to contribute to this fundraiser,” said English teacher Brianne Koribanick.

In the past, O’Neill has worked together with our chapter of the National Honors Society to collect donations from students to benefit victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

O’Neill has a reputation for helping others; she recently started collections for our local food pantry, which is in dire need of toiletries and other basic products, in school events such as SDA or basketball games. In fact, she was awarded with Student of the Month this school year for her valiant efforts to help her community. Kelly’s most recent project is collecting non-perishable items for the food pantry at Hills. The Addams Family, showing here at Hills, has offered $1 off tickets for every two food pantry items brought in.

Junior Kiana Garcia commented, “I’m glad Hills is doing more than just taking a picture to show our support. Raising this money will really help MSD High School and I am proud to be a part of it.”