Homelessness is a struggle that is heavy on our hearts. Yet when we think about homelessness, we don’t usually think about high school students. East High in Salt Lake City, Utah, has discovered a problem with rising homelessness among students, and the school decided to do something about it.
East High has estimated that between 50 and 100 students do not have continual access to shower and laundry facilities. Principal Greg Maughan decided to confront this problem head on. The school is building a washroom specifically for underprivileged students, complete with a washer, dryer, and shower.
The issue was recently brought to light as some students began to notice some of their peers taking extra measures to keep up their hygiene. Senior student Emily Beatse explained to Fox 13 news that students would spend their weekends at the theater department “‘Cause we have a washing machine and dryer for our costumes, but they’re always very sneaky.” Emily clarified that “they come in during a Saturday rehearsal and hide down in the shop and do it while everyone is up rehearsing.”
Students like Emily understood the need for the school to help these students. “A lot of them don’t have [washers] in their own homes, and a lot of them are afraid to ask their friends or someone else.”
Principal Maughan felt that no student should have to feel afraid to get help. He sympathized with the students, relaying to Fox news that, “I don’t want to go to work if I don’t have clean clothes.” It is heartwarming to see a principal who cares so deeply about his students.
East High opened up a laundry and shower facility for their students thanks to the help of community members and local businesses. Students are free to use this resource before, during, or after school. The washroom will help students feel more like they blend in.
It is touching to see a school whose care for its students extends beyond the classroom. This story reminds us how much impact compassionate people can have on the lives of others.
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