Local Nonprofit Receives Significant Donation to Aid Underprivileged Students
In a heartening display of community solidarity, CH Liquidations has generously donated nearly ,000 worth of essential school supplies—ranging from clothes and shoes to notebooks and backpacks—to Hands Reaching Hands, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children in the Banning and Beaumont areas. This contribution is expected to significantly reduce operational costs, enabling Hands Reaching Hands to allocate resources more effectively towards assisting those in need.
Joanne Perez, the founder of Hands Reaching Hands, expressed her gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the importance of local businesses supporting their own communities. “It means a lot, especially when a store from the community helps, because many of the families we assist shop in those stores,” said Perez, underscoring the significance of community engagement in addressing local needs.
Hands Reaching Hands is committed to providing vital support to homeless individuals, families, and children, offering essential items such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Perez continuously seeks the assistance of local businesses and residents to bolster the organization’s outreach efforts. “I do this throughout the whole year. I constantly give clothes,” she remarked, highlighting her dedication to the cause.
One of the hallmark events organized by Hands Reaching Hands is the annual “No Bullying Back-to-School” event, which typically occurs shortly before the school year starts. This initiative aims to support around 100 students from low-income households, those in foster care, or experiencing homelessness by providing them with haircuts, school supplies, clothes, and shoes. This year, Perez has set an ambitious goal to double the number of children served, aiming to reach 200 students.
To realize this goal, Perez approached CH Liquidations, located at 1434 W. Ramsey Street in Banning, seeking their support. Leslie Ordaz, assistant manager at CH Liquidations, was inspired to participate, citing her parents’ history of community service in Mexico. “Everything here is expensive, so being able to give back, even just a little, means a lot,” Ordaz stated, illustrating the profound impact of community contributions.
The issue of bullying remains a critical concern for Perez, particularly as it often affects children who cannot afford basic necessities like new clothes or haircuts. She believes that Hands Reaching Hands can play a role in mitigating this issue by providing children with the resources they need to feel confident and accepted at school. “We are not just putting up a sign that says, ‘Don’t bully.’ We are actively taking steps to make a difference,” Perez asserted.
The positive impact of this recent donation has inspired CH Liquidations to consider future philanthropic initiatives. Ordaz expressed her desire to continue supporting community efforts, stating, “It feels like a privilege being able to give back, even in small ways that can change someone’s life.”
Hands Reaching Hands remains open to donations year-round, and community members interested in contributing can do so by visiting handsreachinghands.org or by accessing the organization’s Amazon wishlist to purchase specific items. For further inquiries or to offer support, individuals can contact Hands Reaching Hands via email at handsreachinghands@yahoo.com or by calling 909-435-7333. Through continued community involvement and support, initiatives like those led by Hands Reaching Hands stand poised to make a significant and lasting impact in the lives of local children and families.
