Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes
Last week, our school community came together for a Homeless Awareness Evening, a special event designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of what life might be like for someone experiencing homelessness.
Through simple but powerful activities such as building a shelter out of cardboard boxes outside, eating a basic meal of soup as well as reflecting on the challenges people face without a permanent home through a game style of musical chairs, students were able to step—just for a moment—into the shoes of others.
The evening was eye-opening and full of important conversations. As part of the experience, students shared their thoughts, some of which were recorded to help us all reflect. Here are just a few of their moving words:
“After this evening, I got to experience in a short moment what it might be like to be homeless.” – Aruei
“It was cold and uncomfortable and I couldn’t imagine what it would be like if it was raining or windy.” – Dach
“I never really thought about how homeless people often stay together for safety and protection” – Liam
“The soup—even though I don’t like it—kept me warm. I was still hungry and couldn’t wait to get home to have another meal. I would hate to feel that hungry all the time.” – Fredrick
“I can understand now why people would be begging for money.” – Charmaine
It was a humbling experience for all involved. We are proud of our students for their thoughtfulness, empathy, and willingness to learn about such an important issue. Events like this remind us how lucky we are—and how we can show kindness and compassion to those who are doing it tough.
Thank you to the staff, families, and students who made the night possible and to those who brought donations for people in need. Together, we continue to build a community built on kindness, empathy, and support for all.
