Chicago students who worked hard to keep up their grades won a trip to Disney World from the Salvation Army – there’s just one problem.
The Salvation Army paid for the trip to send the students from Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, one of the hardest hit by violence in the city, to the iconic park, but the kids don’t have enough spending money for the trip.
The 14 students were selected from a group of 100 in a program called Celebrate Launch and Landing. The group meets once a week with a mentor to work on personal goals.
This year, the mentor decided to take things a step further.
“We wanted something different for them, something they will always remember,” said mentor Capt. Nikki Hughes.
The kids were challenged with keeping up their grades and attending school on a regular basis for an entire school year.
“I feel honored it makes me stand out and it makes me feel kind of special I get to go to Disney,” said 17-year-old Isaiah House.
Some of the students have never left the city before. Others didn’t have the luggage they would need to take such a trip.
On Friday, the Salvation Army supplied the students with Armor travel bags.
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The group is asking for donations to help the students with spending money for the trip to supply them with food, drinks and other expenses. To donate, click here.
You can also mail or drop off donations at the below address:
Salvation Army Red Shield Center
945 W. 69th Street
Chicago, IL 60621
