Bottles of Smiles after Harvey

Houston was struck with a ghastly hurricane named Harvey during late August through early September. The aftermath of such a vast natural disaster was truly astounding. However, Houston and its community came together to highlight its resilience and strength as its citizens helped one another to rebuild the city.

The Emery/Weiner School community embodies the city of Houston’s ideals because it is reflective of what Houston has done to take proactive steps towards rebuilding and becoming better than ever. Over the course of the rebuilding process, Emery has started an outreach program, in which it took students to repair homes across the greater Houston area.

Emery seniors Ilana Vines and Gavin Roth partook in these efforts by renewing a sense of optimism in children and adults impacted by Hurricane Harvey. They did this by handing out their product Bottles of Smiles, which is a bottle consisting of a handwritten letter, activity sheets, crayons, toys and a wristband. These bottles help people recognize happiness within the face of adversity. One smile can truly make an impact, and they have become cognizant of the fact that one kind act can lead to a brighter day and future for many.

Bottles of Smiles has influenced many children during Harvey relief efforts, and it ensures that we can find the slightest bit of happiness within a historic catastrophe. The idea of “Houston Strong” highlights Houstonians’ courage, strength and resilience. Bottles of Smiles is just one part of what it means to be Houston Strong, and it also emphasizes Emery’s enthusiasm to reach out to a broader community in these tough times.

Read more about Bottles of Smiles in Ilana Vines' Buzz Kidz story.