Treehouse Calls Mariel to Action

I’ve always been exposed to tzedakah; I went to a Jewish day school for several years and my parents often included me in discussions about where their donations would go. I decided to join J-Team at the beginning of this school year so I could make my own impact, separate from my parents. Last Sunday, we visited Treehouse, an organization that allows foster kids to live normal, happy lives by providing support for academic, emotional, and material well-being. Treehouse relies almost entirely on private donations in order to finance tutors, counselors, and clothing and school supplies that would otherwise be unobtainable.

For as long as I can remember, I would put my old clothes in a pile by the door and when the stack began to topple over, my parents would donate everything to the Treehouse warehouse. Now, after seeing all the overflowing racks and shelves, I understand why my old clothes went there and wholeheartedly applaud what my parents did. During the J-Team’s visit, I was able to explore the warehouse and see for myself what foster children in Washington State need the most. I was especially moved by the shelves of donated books. I have always loved to read and believe that no child should be left without a good book. I have tens, maybe even hundreds of books from when I was younger gathering dust at my house. Since there is no limit to the number of books foster children can take, I have decided to donate some of my old books to Treehouse so other children can read what I once enjoyed.