In Lorain, Ohio, there’s a middle school where nearly 9 out of 10 students live in poverty. At General Johnnie Wilson Middle School, many young girls walk the halls each day without basic self-care items like a hairbrush, lip gloss, or even clean socks. They’re bright, resilient, and full of potential—but too often, their reflection in the mirror doesn’t match the light they carry inside.
And on April 25th, we have the opportunity to change that.
👑 One Day. One Gift. A Lifetime of Confidence.
GJW is hosting its annual Girls Empowerment Day, and this year’s theme is a beautiful, joy-filled Tea Party for approximately 280 girls in grades 6 through 8. But this is so much more than just tea and muffins. This event is about reminding each girl that she’s seen, supported, and worthy of celebration—no matter her circumstances.
Organizers are collecting small cosmetic and hygiene bags, each filled with essential items most of us take for granted:
- Brushes and combs
- Lip gloss and lotion
- Socks, pads, and pimple patches
- Hair ties, scrunchies, and mirrors
- Toothbrushes and travel essentials
Each bag costs less than $2 to build, but the impact? Priceless.
🧠 Why This Matters
You might be wondering—why a tea party? Why lip gloss and mirrors?
Because representation matters. Because feeling confident changes how a girl raises her hand in class, how she walks into a room, how she treats others—and how she allows herself to be treated.
This isn’t about vanity. It’s about visibility. When girls feel seen, they show up as the leaders they are.
And for many at GJW, this event will be the first time they’ve ever received something made just for them.
🕰 We’re Almost There—But We Need You
The community has already stepped up in incredible ways—but we’re still short on the items that will help complete this vision. Donations are needed immediately so supplies can be organized and delivered in time.
There are two easy ways you can help:
- Purchase directly from the Amazon Wish List:
Click here to browse and donate - Send a monetary donation, and we’ll shop for you. If you’re local, we can also arrange a pickup if you prefer to purchase items yourself. Contact Lydia Young on Facebook to donate.
In addition to the bags, we’re also seeking donations for the tea party’s light breakfast and snacks:
- Juice boxes
- Muffins and fruit trays
- Tea, mints, chips, and bottled water
- Pearl necklaces, sunglasses, white gloves, and fun dress-up accessories
💬 Final Thought: What If This Was Your Daughter?
What if your daughter, niece, or granddaughter was in that classroom—wondering if anyone would show up for her?
This is your chance to be the answer to that question. One small donation can make a girl feel like she belongs, like she’s worthy of joy, of fun, and of feeling beautiful.
We’re not just stuffing gift bags—we’re building self-worth.
📅 Deadline for donations is next week.
📦 Wish List: Amazon Link
❤️ Please help us show these girls they matter. Even one item makes a difference.