‘Do the big thing:’ Lubbock teen embarks on journey to Washington, D.C. to fundraise for disabled, senior citizens

Note: The video above reflects top headlines from morning of July 22, 2024.

LUBBOCK, Texas — An upcoming senior at Lubbock High School Eliseo Jimenez, 17, began his long journey on July 12 walking from Lubbock, Texas to Washington, D.C. to raise funds to support individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.

Jimenez told EverythingLubbock.com on Friday, the purpose of the walk was to not only raise funds for those in need, but to also raise awareness. On February 4, 2024, the 17-year-old established the New Life Foundation , a non-profit organization aimed towards his ambitions to provide essential assistance to individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.

“I want to shed light [and] bring more attention towards helping senior citizens and the disabled,” Jimenez expressed. Jimenez said it is disheartening to witness the lack of support from the federal government and how social security hardly has benefits for the demographic.

The ambitious Lubbock High student said, “It is my goal to raise awareness about these issues and advocate for the changes that are needed.”

Jimenez said the idea to walk for a fundraiser was brought to his attention by his brother. However, he decided to go above and beyond and make an impactful statement by walking from Lubbock to the United States Capitol.

“Many people have asked me if I got the idea from Forrest Gump. No I did not,” said Jimenez. Instead, he gave the credit to his family.

“My inspiration [to do this] is my family. They [have] always encouraged me to do the big thing,” Jimenez said.

He admitted that “this will be one of the hardest things [he has] ever attempted.” He told EverythingLubbock.com, “I’ve been walking all day and all night, sleeping at gas stations, hotels, stopping to eat and take breaks to bathe and rest.”

Jimenez was hoping the journey would take about 38 days, but realized it will be 45 days until he is back home to Lubbock.

From walking all day and all night across states, Jimenez said he is determined to make it to the steps of the state Capitol, hoping to make a change.

If you would like to donate to help Eliseo make a positive impact, visit the New Life Foundation page or click on the GoFundMe. To keep up with his journey, visit the New Life Foundation’s social media page .

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