CLEVELAND — At some point we've all felt pain during this pandemic. Whether it's losing a job, a loved one, or just the loneliness that comes with staying home.
Friday morning, a group of high school students launched a new campaign in the heart of Cleveland to help brighten our day.
As we emerge from winter and the darkness of living through a deadly pandemic, an attitude re-boot is taking root.
"Spring is coming soon. In hard times, there are ways to help bring positivity. We're just trying to remind everyone that there's positivity in the world," said Mallory Chylla.
Chylla, a senior at Beachwood High School, along with teens from nearly a dozen high schools, kicked off their Hope Blooms Ohio campaign in Public Square.
"We're really just trying to spread some hope and do some good. I love giving back to my community in any way that I can," said Matt Kendig, a senior at Brush High School.
The marketing students flooded the heart of the city with colorful flower yard signs.
"I drove by and I just saw all these beautiful flowers," said Denise Gordon.
The display caught Gordon's attention and brought a smile to her face.
“It lifted my spirit up because I love the color of flowers," said Gordon.
Alex Schneider's daughter, Emma, was drawn to the huge 20-foot tall inflatable flower.
"It was very cute. This is a wonderful idea. I love it," said Schneider. “I think everybody does still need hope. Because of everything that's going on people are starting to give up."
Between now and the end of April, hope will be blooming in various parks and open spaces across Northeast Ohio.
"We're going to Beachwood, Mayfield, Lakewood, Chagrin Falls, Cuyahoga Falls and then the Cleveland Public Library," said Chylla.
Hope Blooms Ohio goes well beyond bright colors and big flowers.
In addition to raising spirits, the students are also raising money for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.
"Every $1 that we donate they can provide four meals which is awesome," said Chylla.
The students are selling merchandise with the goal of raising $40,000, or 160,000 meals.
Meantime, the reactions so far are priceless.
"The smiles we're putting on people's faces in our community is just the best reward I could get out of this,” said Kendig.
If you would like more information on Hope Blooms Ohio go to www.hopebloomsohio.com.
