I'm a student and also a teen. I've recently watched Raleigh's residents re-enter their damaged community. At school, I saw all the horrific damages. Many students were affected by the tornado. Some experience loss of power, hot water, food, clothes and even a home.

It is more important now than ever to help support the establishment of a school-based health center (SBHC) on the grounds of a Wake County school.

SBHCs are designed based upon the community's needs. They provide students with a place to take a shower, get a change of clothes or even to talk to a counselor if they're feeling overwhelmed. Those who need to rest their head for a couple of hours while at school can also go to the center. Students who may have a chronic illness and lose their medication from the storm could receive the proper care from the SBHC.

When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, their SBHCs were the main way that they delivered health care to people in need. They became emergency clinics and supported the local community as it got back on its feet. A SBHC can provide students with a support system while at school from the devastating storm.

Dynasty Winters

Raleigh