Teen Plans Benefit for Area Homeless

Community activism begins at a young age for a Simi Valley youth who has organized a fund-raiser and public awareness campaign to benefit the homeless.

Mike Staton, 15, has lined up about 35 volunteers to help him raise at least $1,000 for the Samaritan Center, a Simi Valley drop-in facility that offers clothing, showers and breakfast for homeless people.

“It’s pretty important,” Mike said. “They are one of the best services that I know of for the homeless. They told me they have not had anybody sponsor them for a while.”

Mike said the idea to help those less fortunate came from the Love Earth Action Club, an organization at Simi Valley High School that encourages students to discuss society’s ills and to create problem-solving initiatives.

“It makes me feel really good,” he said. “Everyone’s coming together. You have one set goal. It’s really cool when that happens.”

If the event is a success, Mike said, he will create a permanent organization to raise money for environmental causes and shelters for battered women. He said he has been planning the event for 2 1/2 months.

Mike said he has obtained the necessary permits and lined up live music acts.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Mountaingate Plaza in Simi Valley .

Local nonprofit organizations are invited to set up tables and the drop-in center will have a collection area for donations.

For more information, call the Samaritan Center at 579-9166 or Staton at 292-2732.