Sussex Academy sophomores hold free market for those in need

Sussex Academy sophomores Julia Rial and Jade Carter held a free market at the Shepherd’s Office in Georgetown Feb. 27.

Last year, the girls founded the local chapter of Extinction Rebellion Youth. XR Youth focuses on local issues of sustainability and environmental practices. The group has organized beach cleanups in Rehoboth and Lewes. They have also planted trees and beach grass at James Farm in Ocean View.

For this project, the group focused on sustainability and ways to keep items out of landfills. They gathered gently used bedding, clothes, shoes and other supplies, and distributed them to people who are homeless or in need. The group held the event at the Shepherd’s Office, an organization that feeds and cares for individuals every day who are homeless and in need. It was a perfect fit.

Linda Vista Real Estate heard about the girls’ free market and offered to sponsor lunch the day of the event for those in need. Linda Vista and XR Youth wanted to support a small business in Georgetown with that donation, so the girls contacted Bella Capri Italian restaurant. Bella Capri owner Enzo Tiano was generous and went above the donation amount to help them supply 100 hot meals to people in need.

XR Youth welcomes any teen interested in environmental and social action and sustainability. For more information, email xryouth.de@gmail.com.