The local charity, Project Warm-Up, is having its 11th annual blanket making day. The charity began when the current principal of the Spanish Immersion School, Tracy Vik, and her daughter, Kaitlin Vik, realized the immense amount of homelessness here in our own community. The holiday season for these homeless families is more bitter than ever. The Viks’ decided a blanket, although small and insignificant to most, could make a difference for the struggling families right here in Sioux Falls.

LHS’ very own Student Council is planning to attend the annual blanket tying festivities. Project Warm-Up is one of the many charities that Student Council participates in.

“Student Council always does different stuff for the community,” said Student Council member, Lily Hiatt. “We have done The Banquet and Kids Against Hunger. Volunteering is just another way to impact the community and get our name out there.”

Project Warm-Up is exponentially increasing the amount of blankets distributed each year. Over the last ten years, the charity has gifted over 15,000 blankets. 4,000 of those blankets are from last year alone.

“All 27 Student Council members went out and made blankets last year and will again this year,” said Student Council secretary, Kenna Decker. “I’m not sure the exact number we made, but I know it was over ten. It’s a lot of fun to just make blankets and know you’re affecting other people’s lives in a positive way.”

Not just Student Council can make a difference in the community though. All are welcome to donate fleece or tie blankets Saturday, Dec. 10th at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School located at 1520 S. Lake Ave.

“The school can help by donating fleece and coming out to help,” said Decker. “Grab a few friends and spend an hour helping out people in our community. It’s a fun way to make an impact.”