Florida Student Bullied on First Day of School Receives Makeover and Support From Local Community

Back to school season is upon us and for some, it’s the time to sauce it up and make a mark at school. But for others, even a backpack is a luxury. This is why teaching our children that the value of great character outweighs the value of material things.

Last Friday was the first day of the school year for Hillsborough County, FL students. Not even halfway through the first day, a Snapchat photo surfaced online of a young lady with her hair in a ponytail along with the caption “On The First Day…Bruhhh.” She was unknowingly targeted because her hair did not fit “back to school standards.” She didn’t have bundles or long plaits — she wore her natural hair. Within hours, the photo went viral on Instagram and Facebook. Teens and adults alike were sharing and commenting on the child’s appearance as if the natural hair under their wigs wasn’t kinky. But the taunting quickly turned into action and the attempt at shade backfired.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Business owners and Tampa residents, Brea Marcus and Sarah Black, immediately sought out the young lady and provided assistance to not only her but her whole family as well. With the power of blessed hearts and the internet, they were able to locate the family and provide a complete makeover for the young lady, complete with free bundles, installation and touch up, clothes, shoes and all the confidence she needs to carry out the rest of this school year successfully. Her siblings also received haircuts, braided styles, clothes, shoes, and necessities that the whole family can utilize. It turns out the family is from Zambia, Africa and have not been in America longer than a year. The parents speak very little English and do not have access to even some of the bare necessities they need to thrive in America. But now with the support of Sarah, Brea and their local community, this young lady and her family have the helping hands they need.

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This was a heartwarming story of how it truly takes a village to take care of each other. This story also proves that behind every pitfall, there’s a blessing. The world is still full of love. There are still beautiful souls. Let’s teach our kids to be beautiful souls too and understand that bullying is a serious issue and never to be taken lightly. Stand up for yourself and others and never belittle someone for their misfortunes, because they could always end up as your misfortunes. #StopBullying