Torrance, CA (May 18, 2016): On Friday, May 13, Bishop Montgomery student and Concordia Club member Kevin O’Donnell delivered toys and books to the USC Violence Intervention Program in downtown Los Angeles. During the two weeks prior, O’Donnell spearheaded a campaign which, with the support of BMHS’ Concordia Club, saw Bishop students donate 197 new stuffed animals and 48 children’s books to the program.
The USC Violence Intervention Program specializes in the treatment of all victims of violence and aims to place children in new, violent-free homes. Often, the children who seek the program’s support are direct victims of abuse and/or neglect, or have witnessed it at home. The program specifically requests new stuffed animals and books that can be given to these children when they enter the program and undergo a battery of physical and psychological tests. “These [items] are something for them to hold on to and have as their own as they make adjustments to their new life,” says O’Donnell.
O’Donnell, a sophomore, oversaw a similar campaign on campus last year when he was just a freshman. “It’s a really good program,” explains O’Donnell. “I thought students at Bishop would like to be a part of it.” O’Donnell’s instincts were correct and, this year, the overwhelming support of the student body proved it. “It’s just a nice way to give back,” he adds.