After being inspired by families living in a shelter while volunteering for Portland Homeless Family Solutions, junior Alisha Zhao founded Hope for Homeless last year.

The club is closely tied to PHFS but has extended its services to other shelters in the community, including the Clay Street Table. As club president, Zhao has coordinated many fundraising projects. Last year during the holiday season, the club raised $100 that went towards buying gifts for families at PHFS.

“We’ve also created blankets, held winter drives, created greeting cards, and brought the community together to create awareness,” Zhao said. “Our mission is to get our community involved, especially coming from a privileged school, and make a difference in our society.”

For the holiday grams sale, which is Zhao’s current project, the club will be selling homemade ornaments for $2 and candy canes for $1 starting Tuesday at lunch in the main hall.

“They’re fun and festive and a great way to get into the holiday spirit while also raising money for our club,” Zhao said. The money will be going to club funds, which will help start other projects, such as a bake sale or buying materials to make more blankets. Funds will also go to PHFS.

Club meetings are held every other Monday in room 142. Zhao can be reached at [email protected].