CLEVELAND — Ohioans are rising to the challenge of helping those struggling in Haiti after an earthquake rocked the nation. 

Ronnie Holman is collecting school supplies. So far, he has just one box, but hopes to change that. 

“So far, we’ve gotten a few packs of paper, college-ruled and wide-ruled paper, we’ve got tons of folders, different colors,” said Holman. “We are a long way from where I’m expecting to be.” 

He’s collecting school supplies for children in Haiti after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake left thousands dead. The earthquake was then followed by Tropical Storm Grace, which devastated the country even more.

“Just to know that kids are suffering bad with an earthquake. Some may have lost parents, other family members, friends — I can only imagine,” said Holman.  

Holman runs Pure Productions, a production company that does stage plays and film. He grew up in one of Cleveland’s most dangerous neighborhoods and said he knows a thing or two about overcoming challenges. 

“I can honestly say I was one that beat the odds to kind of make it out, be successful, graduate from college. That’s why I have to give back, because I know where I come from,” said Holman.  

He's spent a lot of time studying for grad school while answering the call to help. 

“Teaching 4th and 5th graders and then being an assistant principal, I do know how tough it is for kids to have supplies, purchasing supplies just for those kids to keep up throughout the school year is tough," he said.

He said it's important to give back to those who are going through hard times, especially the residents of Haiti. 

“You never know. We can be in the same situation in the snap of a finger. That’s why it’s always important to count your blessings, to reach back and help someone else," Holman said.