MLK Day is not just a national holiday celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It’s a call to action and the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service. The Wheatley High School community answered that call with a resource fair, food distribution, and garden clean up.

MLK Day of Service serves to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. On Saturday, students and staff dedicated their time to the community fair organized by HISD’s Community Partnerships and Nutrition Services.

UnitedHealth Group donated $10,000 as part of an ongoing partnership with HISD and Souper Pantries to provide assistance to students and families.

The day of service began with a check presentation, followed by a resource fair in the Wheatley High School gym. More than a dozen organizations and vendors were on hand to offer free services for members of the Fifth Ward community.

Outside, volunteers worked to clean up an area behind the track and field to be used as a community garden.

In front of the school, volunteers handed out meals with help from the Houston Food Bank.

“Phillis Wheatley High School has a rich, rich history that’s grounded in service,” said Principal Sabrina Cuby-King. “It’s really an exciting and wonderful opportunity for our students to have them give back to the community as well as receive the fulfillment that they’re helping out their community members and fellow students.”

Learn more about HISD Community Partnerships and volunteer opportunities here.