Two Local Couples Pledge $20,000 To LEAF Homeless Student Fund

ST. CLOUD -- Two local couples are pledging to match up to ten-thousand dollars each to the Local Education Activities Fund for their Homeless Student Services Fund for March and April.

Mark and Ann Thelen, and Mike and Diana Podawiltz are the two couples who have pledged a total of $20,000 in contributions for March and April, they hope to spur others to reach LEAF's goal of $40,000.

In a LEAF video, Mark Thelen says it's about the future for these kids.

"If we give opportunity to an eight-year-old now, in 20 years we'll have a successful 28-year old, a 13-year-old now in 20 years will be 33-years-old, and will be a very productive and happy human being."

Diana adds it's about the worth of children.

"All children have value, they are worth what we can give them, and what we can help them with."

Usually district social workers use community programs to assist the districts homeless children.

LEAF's fund is there with healthy snacks, school supplies, and crisis shelter help when the county and other community services fall short.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the LEAF Homeless Student Services Fund, you can donate on their website, or send donations to P.O. Box 1132, St. Cloud MN 56302