Thompson High basketball programs find a way to help out in Houston

The Thompson High boys and girls basketball teams lent a helping hand, by sending clothing to the people of Houston impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Thousands of people have been displaced from their homes and lost their belongings because of the flooding in Houston.

“We just really wanted to find a way to help,” said Thompson athletic director Vincent Pitts. “Often times, it’s really hard to make monetary donations and collect money and make sure it gets where it needs to get.”

Pitts got the ball rolling after seeing a tweet sent out by Houston men’s basketball head coach Kelvin Sampson. The Houston head coach challenged coaches and equipment staffs from basketball programs throughout the country, at all levels, to send at least 20 of the school’s t-shirts and 10 pairs of shoes.

Pitts liked the idea and approached Thompson High principal Dr. Wesley Hester, girls basketball head coach JoVanka Ward and boy basketball head coach Kelly Cheatham for feedback.

“We all decided this was a great way for Thompson to help,” Pitts said. “It’s great to be able to help someone in need.”

On Wednesday, players from the basketball programs, along with the coaches and administrators, got together to pack up the care package and send it to Houston. The shirts are expected to be distributed at emergency shelters in the Houston area.

It was not only a great way to help, but a tremendous life lesson for everyone involved.