SU aids joint effort

 
After the efforts of 500 students and sorting, checking, grouping and boxing up over 1,500 non-perishable food items, The Southern University Center for Service Learning donated essentials for a traditional thanksgiving meal to elderly and disabled adults.
In a joint effort between the SU Center for Service Learning and the East Baton Rouge Parish Housing Authority, elderly and disabled residents of Turner Plaza will have a traditional thanksgiving meal.
“The ability for the students to give back to the very community that many of them are products of speaks volumes of their character and further proves that Southern University Center for Service Learning is doing its part in the community. We thank the students for doing their part,” said Kristan Gordon, Coordinator, Center for Service Learning.
Thyrag Lewis a graduate assistant in the office was amazed for more than one reason at the ability of students to contribute to their community.
“Not all schools have service learning programs so, this was a great opportunity for me to see a food drive where students give so tremendously and generously. I was truly amazed by the spirit of giving displayed by the students and even some staff members here at Southern University,” said Lewis.
Essentials donated included; flour, oil, rice, beans, and canned goods from corn to pie filling.
“For the last 8 years it’s always satisfying to see students be blessed enough to be a blessing to others. They give unselfishly and many times they go above and beyond. For that we are grateful,” Kristan Gordon said.
Gordon and students assisted in the process of collecting, consolidating, and turning over the donations to Michael Stewart from the EBR Housing Authority.
“This is an annual project. It’s important for our students to understand and to help those who are in need. This is Southern’s way of giving back,” Barbara Carpenter, Director of SU Center for Service Learning said.
Rosa Robins, administrative assistant, SU Center for Service Learning was inspired by the willingness of students to contribute.
“I was really touched by students being so compassionate and willing to give,” Robins said.
Lori Hitchens, Instructor, SU Center for Service Learning along with the Center for Service Learning were grateful to students for their donations.
“It overwhelms me to see the students stepped up and collaborated with the instructors and other entities on campus to join in giving to those who need it most. It shows the compassion the students have for others,” Hitchens said.
Any students who would like to donate or contribute to the effort, the Center for Service Learning will host another food drive beginning in February in an effort to provide meals for Easter.