Community, churches step up to help Columbia students in need of winter clothing

Numerous new and gently used coats, gloves and clothes have been donated to Columbia Battle high school students in need. Battle is located in northeast Columbia.

Former Columbia mayoral candidate Tanya Heath led this week’s effort, along with members of this summer’s anti-violence summit, Community United Methodist Church members and the public.

Bags of supplies were donated and dropped off at the school. Battle high school students say about 40 Battle students are considered homeless, and many others are struggling with poverty. One student says something as simple as a winter coat could save someone’s life. Ms. Heath says the Columbia community cares for the Battle students.