NRHS Juniors Selling Wristbands to Benefit the One Fund

After the marathon bombings and death of North Reading resident Tim Chaloux, Peter Psallidas, like many others, felt helpless. The North Reading High School junior decided to take action and do something to help those hurt by the bombings. With the help of his friend Ryan Sanborn, the pair ordererd Boston Strong wristbands to raise money for the One Fund.

The customized blue and yellow wristbands say "Boston Strong." The suggested donation for a wristband is $5 and all of the proceeds will go to the One Fund.

"Over April vacation the town lost a very well-known and well-liked student, Tim Chaloux. It was only days later when I got news of the bombings that occured at the finish line of the Boston Marathon and I was shocked at how two such tragic events could occur in such propinquity," Psallidas said. "As many other students might have felt, I felt helpless and unable to change the situation that I was in. I decided that I wanted to be a contributor to rebounding our city, but I also was reminded how lucky each and every one of us students are to be so safe every day."

In the first two days of selling the wristbands, the pair made over $225. People were generous, Psallidas said. They wanted to contribute to "a cause that hit so close to home." They have been selling bracelets during lunch hours at the high school and still have about 200 bracelets to sell.

"I have also gone door-to-door to neighboring residents who have been overwhelmingly responsive, including one family that donated $40 without asking for a bracelet in return. We hope to make a profit of at least $1000 at the end of the three week sale," he said. "Although this can't change the devastation that has taken place, it has given myself and fellow students a sense of place in creating a difference in the aftermath of what has occured so close to home."

If you are interested in purchasing a wristband, or donating, call Psallidas at 978-973-9744 or email psallidas.peter@gmail.com.