Jodie Barrett and her daughter Lauren Eckley stopped by Manning Elementary last week to drop off snacks, clothing, and hygiene items for students in need, courtesy of the Ryan Barrett Memorial Foundation. Jodie, along with her husband Thomas, created the foundation as a way to remember their son Ryan and give back to the community that their family loves so much. Each year, around the time of Ryan’s birthday, January 30th, they look for a special way to help others and this year, they chose the students of Manning Elementary.
The foundation set a goal of having 100 people give $28 in honor of Ryan’s 28th birthday and that goal was exceeded. “It brings us great joy to help others as we remember our son, Ryan, on his birthday each year. This year, it was extra special to be able to assist students at Manning Elementary School, where Ryan’s primary education began. We are always overwhelmed by the support that flows out of our community each year and we are grateful for everyone that helps us help others as we remember Ryan,” Barrett said.
Manning Principal Jen Ott, Community Outreach Liaison Julie Liverman and Counselor Delaney Clark expressed their gratitude for the items, with Liverman sharing, “The generosity of Jodie, Lauren, and their family is such a blessing and many students in need will benefit from these items.”