Southwest Middle families in need

Principal Damian Rosado at Southwest Middle School asked the community for its help to take care of 51 families in need. 

Rosado said many students and their families currently live in hotels and are in need of food and clothes. 

On top of that, a recent apartment fire near the school at Millenium Cove happened Sunday, Aug. 10, raising the number of families in need. 

Orlando Fire Department Assistant Chief Corey Philman said firefighters were not sure which units were salvageable, and people still are wondering if they have a home. 

The Red Cross helped 31 people who were in need of emergency assistance, including seven children.

Items like basketball shorts, school supplies and backpacks are needed. 

Rosado also said ramen noodles are a very popular item that can be brought in. 

The school is also building its SeaLion Closet and food pantry, where it'll be able to provide students with necessities. 

The school asks that any donations made be taken to the school's office at 6450 Dr. Phillips Blvd, Orlando, ensuring the items will go directly to the families.