Girl Up Club Teams with Mary's Place

Don't think that a pandemic is going to prevent Overlake students from making a difference in our community. Donations have started to come in for our newest service endeavor. 

Upper School's Girl Up Club is partnering with a local service organization that helps women and their families in times of crisis. On Tuesday, Girl Up Club began hosting a donation drive to benefit Mary’s Place, a local shelter dedicated to supporting women, children, and families on their journey out of homelessness.

Rujula V. ('21) is the student leader of Girl Up Club. "As Overlakers, we have so many resources available to us, and as a club that supports women, this is a great way to serve the community," explains Rujula. "Homelessness during the pandemic has risen tremendously among women in Seattle, and it's not only a chance to support Mary's Place but also learn more about gender rights and equality, and homelessness." 

The timing of the donation drive runs as a part of Service Week where students tackle several community projects that the pandemic has made almost impossible to assist in a time of physical distancing and gathering in large groups. 

The donation bin for Mary's Place is set up in the main entry of the new Whitten Math & Sciences Center and will remain there until the end of May. Girl Up Club's faculty advisor is Tina Proctor, and she will make sure that donations make it to their intended place. Right now they are encouraging homerooms, students, and Overlake families to get involved. 

"At this time there's a huge need for children's clothes and PPE (personal protective equipment) as there are a lot of families living close to each other," says Rujula. "Mary's Place is so appreciative of our effort as students, and I hope that everyone can help."

Please consider donating any of the following items to support the families at Mary’s Place during these challenging times: