The Women Who Lead’s Supporting our Students (“SOS”) program is youth-focused and works alongside school administrators to identify and address family insecurities that may negatively affect students in the Hays, Kansas school district (K–12). Our shared goal is to help create a safe, supportive, and enriching school experience, free from the burdens of life’s uncertainties. The program is intended to supplement gaps rather than replace existing community programs that support certain insecurities (e.g., First Call for Help, etc.). SOS is a sub program/committee under the Women Who Lead organization (501(c)3).

Requests may be submitted by a teacher or school employee and must be pre-approved by the designated school administrator. Requests may include, but are not limited to:

• funding school lunches (overdue and to alleviate future expenses)
• funding after-school care expenses (overdue and to alleviate future expenses)
• purchasing/arranging donations for clothing (e.g., new shoes, coats, etc.)
• purchasing/arranging donations for core shelter, comfort, of hygiene insecurities (e.g., mattresses, bedding, haircuts, laundry supplies, etc.)
• gas money
• grocery cards
• seasonal needs (e.g., Christmas insecurities/help)
• and other unique needs