Clay County: Fleming Island High School student gives out hugs to stop bullying

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — Fleming Island High School junior Olivia Hoxie is on a mission to help stop bullying at her school.

She is doing it through simple gestures: high fives, hugs and words of encouragement in a jar.

Hoxie requests that people pass the quotes to other students to keep words of encouragement flowing.

She will wait in the school courtyard or stand in the middle of the cafeteria, looking for anyone who may need a friend.

While some students might shy away from Hoxie, it doesn’t discourage her.

Olivia said her effort in part comes from tragedy that struck Fleming Island.

Her friend, 16-year-old D.J. Deas -- a football player and honor roll student -- took his life last year.

His family said the pressures of life were too much, and his death is part of what inspired Hoxie.

“I can’t take away their pain; all I can do is be there for them support them,” Hoxie said.

Her classmates are thankful for her efforts, and they agree she really is making a difference.

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