United Independent School District (UISD) is proud to announce a successful partnership with Smiles From Heaven, the local non-profit organization dedicated to bringing awareness to childhood cancer and providing support to families affected by this devastating illness. The district rallied together during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September to help raise funds for the organization, holding friendly competitions at the elementary, middle and high schools. In total, UISD raised $42,513.80 for Smiles From Heaven, increasing last year's amount by $15,000.
Smiles From Heaven Co-founders, families they support, UISD Ambassador Family (holding check), UISD Board member Michelle Molina, Superintendent Dr. Cruz, Administration and Campus Leaders.
Cheers erupted, and smiles could be seen across the room on Friday as UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz revealed the check with funds raised from the district. “We are incredibly proud of the support we’ve seen across the district for this very important cause,” said Dr. Cruz. “Our students, staff, and families have shown their compassion and dedication to making a difference. This partnership with Smiles From Heaven is a perfect example of the strength and unity of our community.”
The contributions came from a combination of student-driven fundraising efforts, faculty, staff, online donations, and support from district departments and school booster clubs.
The mission of Smiles From Heaven is personal for co-founders Ray and Betsy Sanchez, who tragically lost their daughter Bella, to pediatric cancer. Their experience has motivated them to be a beacon of light, offer support and ensure other families navigating similar difficult journeys do not feel alone during their hardest times. “It’s hard having to relive everything we’ve been through in sharing our testimony, but partnerships like this make it a whole lot better because we are using that pain to bring something positive out of this,” said Co-Founder and Vice President Betsy Sanchez.
Ricardo Trevino, 2, is currently battling cancer and receiving support from Smiles From Heaven.
“It is something beautiful seeing children helping their own friends, because these children that we support go to these school districts,” added Ray Sanchez, President and Co-Founder. “There is a commitment from UISD, from all the principals, the parents, and the students. We see their support and it’s something beautiful.” Just recently, Sanchez said with donations, they were able to purchase a new vehicle that provides out-of-town transportation, gas cards, meals, and lodging for local families that need extra financial support.
Top donors in the district included United High School, which raised an impressive $5,631.00, followed by Muller Elementary with $3,283.46, and the top middle school, United 6th grade Campus, with $1,027. Other top contributors included United South High School, Prada Elementary, Freedom Elementary, Ruiz Elementary, San Isidro, and Salinas Elementary. “The district-wide Childhood Cancer Pinup Campaign was a true team effort, with everyone coming together to show their support,” said Rebecca Coss-Morales, Associate Superintendent of District Administration and Student Services. “We are already talking about next year’s campaign, setting goals, and making sure we continue to show up for our local families through Smiles From Heaven.”
UISD Superintendent, Dr. Cruz.
As part of the ongoing partnership, the non-profit organization has special plans to recognize the top elementary, middle, and high schools.
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