Friends of Phillis Wheatley

Three neighbors are celebrating the one-year anniversary of the nonprofit they founded. Retired Rice University professors Diane Wolfthal and Linda Neagley and Diane’s daughter Leah, who works in the Fifth Ward, established Friends of Phillis Wheatley High School to serve students who are experiencing poverty, food insecurity, or homelessness. Initially, they focused on stocking the school with food, clothing, and hygiene products. By the second term, they began supporting the students’ academic progress through STAAR tutoring and SAT prep classes. Volunteer tutors come from St. John’s School, Rice University, and alumni of Morehouse College. Ninety-four percent of Phillis Wheatley High School students meet the income criteria for free/reduced lunch. To donate or volunteer, contact [email protected].

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