ORANGE, NJ— STOMP Out Bullying, in partnership with New York Jets and Jets defensive tackle Solomon Thomas, co-founder of The Defensive Line, are proud to kickoff the 18th Annual World Bullying Prevention Month with the donation of a new custom Wellness Room for students at Orange High School. The check presentation was held at Orange High School on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 1:30 p.m. At the school, New York Jets defensive lineman Solomon Thomas presented the $22,500 check to Assistant Principal of Athletics Anthony Frantantoni and students. Thomas also spoke with students about his mental health journey and why he founded the Defensive Line.
“The need for Wellness Rooms is more urgent than ever,” said Ross Ellis, CEO and Founder of STOMP Out Bullying. “As we dedicate this month to bullying prevention, these rooms provide a haven for children with mental health and sensory challenges— a space where they can relax, decompress and recharge. We are excited to offer this resource to the students at West Side High School and Orange High School, and we hope it brings them comfort and support.”
The Wellness Room is thoughtfully designed with sensory-friendly items such as coloring books, stress-relief balls and vibrant, comfortable furniture, all generously donated by School Outfitters. This welcoming space allows students to work through their emotions and manage stress in a calm and supportive environment.
“I am so grateful to partner with STOMP Out Bullying to provide a Wellness Room to students at Orange High School”, said Thomas. “All students should have access to safe spaces to manage their mental well-being.”
“As we mark this important month, these spaces provide an amazing chance for students to relax and take care of their emotional well-being, helping them navigate their days and become more productive, engaged members of their schools and community,” noted Jesse Linder, New York Jets Vice President of Community Relations.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gerald Fitzhugh II, added, “Thank you to Mr. Thomas for taking time out of his busy schedule to promote the importance of wellness to our students at Orange High School. Wellness is at the apex of the work within the Orange School District and will certainly continue due to the generous donation from STOMP OUT bullying in consultation with the NY Jets and Mr. Solomon Thomas. The Orange School District is appreciative and will make great use of this sizable donation.”
STOMP Out Bullying® is the leading national nonprofit committed to transforming school cultures by reducing and preventing bullying, cyberbullying and digital abuse. The organization educates on issues such as homophobia, LGBTQ+ discrimination, racism and other forms of hatred, while promoting civility, diversity, inclusion and equality. STOMP Out Bullying provides practical solutions for addressing bullying. It offers support to those at risk of suicide, utilizing peer mentoring programs, celebrity-endorsed public service announcements, and social media campaigns to raise awareness.
About STOMP Out Bullying Wellness Rooms
STOMP Out Bullying has long championed mental health awareness. In recognition of the importance of year-round self-care, the organization has donated Wellness Rooms to schools serving students in grades 5 through 12. These spaces offer a relaxing, stress-free environment where students can emotionally regulate, recharge and tend to their personal well-being.
About the Defensive Line
Founded by Solomon Thomas, The Defensive Line is dedicated to ending the epidemic of youth suicide, particularly among young people of color. The organization seeks to transform how mental health is discussed and addressed in communities. For further information, visit The Defensive Line.
About Jets Foundation
The Jets Foundation creates impactful programming that leaves lasting legacies for our community. Initiatives funded by the New York Jets Foundation positively influence the lives of young people in the tri state area and provide opportunity for disadvantaged communities.
Photos Courtesy of Orange Public Schools
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