Ryder Killam, a five-year-old, no longer has to face the elements as he waits for his school bus. Thanks to the efforts of local high school students, young Killam, who uses a wheelchair, now has a bus stop shelter providing protection from whatever inclement weather Rhode Island may bring.
Tim, Ryder’s father, had initially used a patio umbrella for rain protection, but it proved ineffective in windy conditions. Seeking an old bus shelter, he turned to Facebook for help. Instead, a connection suggested reaching out to the local high school construction class to build one.
Tim contacted Dan McKena, the construction tech teacher at Westerly High School, who promptly agreed to help. Three students undertook the project supported by a donation from Home Depot. The final creation was remarkable, designed on a 5×8 base to accommodate Ryder and an accompanying adult. “Ryder’s initial reaction was ‘Wow!’, he was delighted and now wishes to spend more time there.”
Image Source: Jim Schubert / Shutterstock
