Talk show legend Oprah Winfrey made the announcement last Friday at West Side High School in Newark, New Jersey.
What We Know:
- The principal of the high school, Akbar Cook started the Lights On program to give students a safe place to hang out after school as well as give them a space to get a meal and wash their laundry.
- The program has existed for years but started gaining national attention after Cook installed washers and dryers for those being bullied for their unclean uniforms.
- Since then, Cook has appeared on “The Ellen Show” twice, with Degeneres donating $50,000 gifts each appearance to keep the program alive.
- Winfrey announced after being moved by the story that she was going to donate $500,000 towards the program in the packed gymnasium of the school.
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“My kids feel like they don’t have anyone,” Cook said. “And you just took time out of your busy schedule to show me and my babies love. I’m floored. I’m truly humbled.” Winfrey stopped him and stated, “We are humbled by you.”
Shout out to Oprah for her generosity!
