Blue Cross Blue Shield group adopts a Highland Park school in need

HIGHLAND PARK, Mich (WXYZ) - From the moment Highland Park Renaissance Academy's Barber School went up for adoption, Blue Cross Blue Shield fell in love.

"Carmen Willingham the Principal here came in and spoke at one of our meetings and from there the relationship was built," Blue Cross National Management Association member Felicia Jones shared with 7 Action News.

Since then, it has been a real family affair with Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade students helping to make holiday treats that Blue Cross's NMA sold for money that will go right back into the school and the students.

"They have adopted our school, we are so blessed, NMA is sponsoring events for all of our children," says Principal Carmen Willingham. 

One project being sold was a jar filled with chocolate chip cookie ingredients, but 5th grader Makayla Smith says she filled hers with appreciation.

"I really enjoy that these ladies have came out on their days to help us through our pain and suffering and build a charity fund," she says.

The craft sale raised $920 that will be used for everything from more school programs to uniforms.