Winta Ykeallo, a senior at Spalding High School, wanted to do something to help her community recover from the January 12, 2023, tornadoes. She decided to assemble laundry baskets filled with household items (dish soap, towels, oven mitts, clothes hangers) for homeowners who need these items as they recover from the storms. To raise money for this project, Winta hosted a Trivia Night at UGA Spalding Extension Office in March. The Trivia Night was so successful that Winta and her team were able to purchase supplies for 10 baskets. She also received $500 from Georgia 4-H, and that money will go toward creating more baskets.
In July, UMCOR Case Manager Katie Johnston met Winta to receive the baskets. Johnston said, “These welcome home baskets are beautiful, and I know our clients will be thrilled to receive them. I am so inspired by Winta and her willingness to serve her community. This will inspire many others to see the people in need and realize that they can help, too.”