Page 3 - Florida Sentinel 11-19-21

Feature
Organization Aims To Bless 50 Children Affected By Gun Violence
BY GWEN HAYES Sentinel Editor
Please register by November 26 In 2011, Ms. Markitia Robin- son established a non-profit organi- zation, Helping Thru The Hurt. The mentoring program was developed to assist at-risk and troubled youth in the Tampa Bay area. As Director of the organization, Ms. Robinson knows what will help these young people. “I was a troubled youth. My son was a troubled youth. He’s serv- ing several years right now. After going to court with him, it was laid upon my heart to do something to help these young people,” she ex- plained. Thus was born the organiza-
tion.
“Our mission is to provide support
and resources within the community in an effort to reduce the alarming rates of recidivism. We also strive to reduce the effects caused by undiag- nosed and untreated trauma by offer- ing community support, case management, therapy and human services to families as a whole,” she explained.
On December 4, 2021, Helping Thru The Hurt will join with other community advocates to host a “50 in the City” Christmas event. The goal is to provide gifts for at least 50 chil- dren.
“This event will focus on blessing families in our community that have been effected by Gun Violence, by blessing them with a day of fun, food and toys,” Ms. Robinson said. The event will be held at Club 1828 (5110
MARKITIA ROBINSON ...Director/Mental Health Counselor
N. 40th Street), from 1-5 p. m.
“Gun Violence in our community has always been a great concern for
me. But the concern grew greater after losing 2 of my nephews within 6 months (December, 2020 and June, 2021) to this horrible ordeal. This event will be in the honor of both of them - Keith Scott and Keith Baines,” Ms. Robinson added.
Parents are encouraged to register for the event by November 26, by call- ing Markitia Robinson (813-454- 6446), Lisa Williams (813-967-7713), or Keidra Gilbert (727-492-0733).
The organization is also accepting donations of toys, clothing toiletries and other useful items. Call any of the above numbers to donate, volunteer or to find out more information. Ven- dors may also donate their talent and time to this event.
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