Rapid City students fund winter gear for homeless veterans

Students from Catholic schools in Rapid City delivered a shipment of warm clothing to Cornerstone Rescue Mission on Monday. The donation included gloves, pants, socks, hats, pajamas, and thermal underwear intended for the facility's veteran residents.

The schools funded the purchase of these items through student-led fundraisers or by allocating extra school funds. This marks the seventh consecutive year that students in the local Catholic school system have donated winter gear to the organization.

Cornerstone Executive Director Lysa Allison noted that the mission requires warm clothing from the current date until roughly April. She stated that new individuals arrive at the facility daily, creating a continuous need for fresh supplies.

The partnership aligns with the mission's non-profit structure and the schools' emphasis on servant leadership. Allison described the collaboration as a strong fit for the Christ-centered organization because the schools frequently practice these principles.

Allison said the donations provide emotional relief for the veterans, many of whom become tearful when receiving the gifts. She observed that these individuals are often on the receiving end of kindness for the first time, making the gesture impactful for those who have experienced difficult life circumstances.

Lysa Allison emphasized that the students are building long-term skills in giving and self-sacrifice. She stated that learning to look beyond their immediate homes to help others is an ability they can carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Student Council President at St. Thomas More High School said the group focused on doing what they could to improve the world in their day-to-day lives. She stated that the students did a beautiful job with the effort today. The mission also accepts financial donations at 30 Main St.