"West Seattle High School is trying to reach out to our community so we are putting together an effort to help not only the homeless students and families in our community, but also to make sure that everyone is warm and has food during this holiday season," said Christina Ruzzine, ninth grade science teacher and cheerleader coach. "We are inviting the entire community to clean out your closets and cupboards and give to a good cause."

She asks that people donate by coming by the high school office where boxes are placed.

Said Ruzzine, "We're breaking the stereotype of cheerleaders, and my team does wonderful things for the community and school and everybody knows the West Side is the 'Best Side.'"

"We cheerleaders have come together to do this, to make our community happy and to show that we actually care," said Castillo. Referring to the stereotype she added, "People think cheerleaders are really rude but we're not."

"I wanted to help people during the holiday so that they are happy. I always feel sympathetic to those who are needy," said Savidge.

"Being a male cheerleader I'm glad I can join them for a great cause," said Rodriguez. "I am also glad I can help here. I have lived in West Seattle my whole life."

The Orion website states, "The Orion Center, located at 1828 Yale Avenue in downtown Seattle, is a multi-service facility open to youth ages 13-22. It offers a safe, open place where youth can access a multitude of services from meals to case management. The Orion Center’s services include the Drop-in Center with showers, lockers, laundry and meals; Case Management; HIV Case Management; Street Outreach; the Orion Interagency School; the Working Zone pre-employment training program; the Barista Training and Education Program; and Youth Tech. "With the help of caring community members, YouthCare keeps young people on the streets safe and healthy by filling basic needs such as underwear, socks, gloves, blankets, and hygiene supplies.

These needs are year-round. Please consider hosting a community drive with your friends, family and co-workers to collect items. It’s easy, and the rewards are endless. Imagine being able to make sure that a 15-year-old living on the street has the coat and gloves they need to stay warm. Or a 19-year-old has a toothbrush and toothpaste so they can keep their teeth healthy."