Way to Justice begins annual collection

 

Partnering with the Spokane Eastside Reunion Association (SERA), The Way to Justice has offered a back-to-school giveaway at the SERA Community Celebration in August for three years.

They are gearing up in March to appeal to businesses, congregations, nonprofits and other organizations to give funds and items for underserved children from kindergarten through 12th grade.

"Thanks to the generosity of our community, we distributed over 5,600 pairs of quality footwear, plus backpacks and school supplies," said Alethea Dumas, community engagement coordinator with The Way to Justice.

"The goal is to meet immediate needs of students and to empower children and families with the confidence, comfort and resources to improve their stability and self-esteem," she added.

The Way to Justice asks groups to support families with funds to purchase these resources to invest "in a brighter future for our youth, our community and humanity," said Alethea, describing the donations as a way to "do justice" and make a difference.

Alethea said her role includes other community outreach, such as hosting Justice Nights, which are free legal clinics in Spokane, Tacoma, Seattle, Yakima and Moses Lake.

In addition, they offer youth empowerment events as a safe space to teach youth about their rights and what justice means.

Last year Cam Zorrozua, chief executive officer, took 35 youths from Rogers and Ferris High Schools to Washington, D.C., to tour the capitol and visit Howard University.

Alethea, who has worked with The Way to Justice a year, previously worked with Better Health Together. She is a 2012 graduate of Lewis and Clark High School and 2016 graduate of Washington State University in women's studies, critical culture, gender studies, human development, sociology and popular culture.

For information, call 822-7514 or email alethea@thewaytojustice.org.