In 2008, when Lisa Corey and Amy Hochkammer were Co-Chairs of Seaholm High School’s Senior All-Night Party in the Birmingham School District, they realized there was a need for help in the community. They began by giving out Thanksgiving meals to students on the free and reduced lunch list. Over the next few years, they expanded the program to include not only students but also community members, calling it Schools Offer Support (SOS).
Currently, SOS helps many people each year by providing grocery cards, childcare assistance, medical bill support, and other essential services. They try to cater to the specific needs of each family, offering everything from meals to shelter. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they saw an increased need for assistance as many people lost a majority of their income seemingly overnight. During this time, they distributed food boxes and Kroger gift cards. They have a $1,200 limit on how much they can give a family in a calendar year.
SOS’s motto is “Rooted within our community,” as they strive to assist everyone in the community, not just staff and students in their schools. They hold one major fundraiser each year: a 5K race, where they seek sponsors and donations to support their annual efforts. With this money, they were able to help over 70 families with their Christmas presents and festivities, giving away over $26,000.
SOS reminds supporters that they can't send kids to college, buy cars, or pay rent, but they can help with immediate needs. If you would like to donate, visit SOS here: https://schoolsoffersupport.org/support/