Last Saturday, four boys from Woonsocket were going to drive onto Highway 37 but were struck by an SUV. Three died. Only one survived. When tragedies like this happen, communities grieve and hold onto what is dear. In the wake of this tragedy, the Wagner Community Student Council wanted to do something to show their love and support for the Woonsocket community and the families of the boys.

StartingonWednesdayandgoingthroughFriday,theWagnerStudent Council set out to raise funds for the families. It started with a simple hat and pajama day. One dollar to wear a hat and one dollar to wear pajamas. Then, the Student Council thought of a way to give the families more than just money, they sold strips of duct tape for one dollar to see if they could sell enough duct tape to tape high school principal, Neil Goter to the bleachers. A week long total of $4,100 was raised through events at the school and from Wagner Community business members.

Each family would receive a Star Quilt. The Star Quilt is one of the most valued gifts of the Native American Lakota and Dakota people. It is to be wrapped around the shoulders of a person. This has great meaning. It is meant to honor and protect the person that it is gifted to. The families of the boys are in need of healing and the Student Council hopes that they can find some comfort in the ways of the Lakota and Dakota.

These gifts were given to the families on Friday the 20th at the Wagner vs. Wessington Springs Football game. Ayana Bruguier, Grant Namminga and Jagger Tyler present the star quilts to each family.

The Wagner Student Council and community sends it’s love towards Woonsocket during this time of mourning. We pray that the people of Woonsocket find comfort in each other in the wake of this tragedy.