Milton High School students experiencing homelessness can get hygiene products and food through a donation drive organized by the Milton Eagles PTO.

The drive, called Eagle's Closet, runs through Dec. 17 and collects shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste and ready-to-eat or microwaveable food. The PTO said in its announcement that many local high school students lack access to basic essentials like clean clothing and hygiene items.

Damien Bentley, a school social worker at Milton High, is coordinating the effort. The drop-off box at the school's front office is labeled "SSW Eagle's Closet," a nod to Bentley's social-work role. Residents can also mail donations to Milton High School PTO, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Milton, GA 30004, or contribute online through the PTO's website.

The need extends well beyond one school. Across Fulton County Schools, more than 1,890 students were identified as experiencing homelessness in a recent school year, according to the district's McKinney-Vento program page. The district did not specify which year that figure covers.

Nationally, public schools identified more than 1.5 million students experiencing homelessness in the 2023–2024 school year, a record high and a 12.6% jump from the year before, according to a SchoolHouse Connection fact sheet. The nonprofit noted that homelessness is "more hidden in rural and suburban communities" and that schools are often the only source of support in those areas.

Fulton County's 2026 Point-in-Time count found 323 people experiencing homelessness countywide, a 34% increase from 2025.

The Milton Eagles PTO is a registered 501(c)(3). Contributions may be tax-deductible; the PTO advises donors to consult a tax advisor. Residents with questions can reach Bentley at (404) 769-8218 or [email protected].

Coming up

• Dec. 17 — Final day to donate to Eagle's Closet at Milton High School's front office, 13025 Birmingham Highway