On Nov. 15 NSU held a 48-hour drive, “Operation Shark Outreach,” in which about 50 boxes were placed in every major university building, including all campus residential halls, for people to donate items for those affected by Hurricane Sandy in the northeast.
With President George Hanbury’s support, Vice President of Student Affairs Brad Williams, Ed. D., met with a group of physical therapy students, members of the Pan Student Government Association, and Alumni Association to devise the university-wide plan to contribute to the relief.
Officials from up North said that the most needed items are baby products, such as diapers and wipes; bath essentials, such as shampoo and body wash; batteries; work, cleaning, and latex gloves; heavy duty garbage bags; canned pet foods; and cleaning supplies.
Elaine Papas, president of NSU’s Manhattan Alumni Chapter, said, “There is a dire need for these donations by the Hurricane Sandy victims, as winter sets in and many are still without power or home. However, the need for caring human connection and support means so much in helping them through.”
The items collected from the “Operation Shark Outreach” drop boxes were picked up on Nov. 16 and 26 boxes of donations were shipped to NSU’s New York Alumni Chapter, in which they were distributed to needy families in time for Thanksgiving.
Williams said, “It’s very important for NSU to contribute to this nationwide relief. I agree with President Hanbury’s statement in his e-mail and think this will help us live up to one of the core values of community. Community can mean a lot of different things but when done best it’s completely inclusive.”
In an e-mail introducing the drive to NSU, Hanbury said, “I am pleased to see the student body and an important alumni chapter in our network coming together in such a selfless manner. This indeed ties into our core value of community.”
In addition, the NSU community was invited to donate money by contacting the Red Cross via Redcross.org to donate any amount or by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Papas said, “Who better relates to Hurricane Sandy than Floridians who have been through Hurricanes and fought back themselves? I believe the fact that students dug deep, even though they are usually on tight budgets, will touch the victims in a special way. I’m proud of the support we are getting from our New York and New Jersey NSU alumni who want to join in this cause by volunteering and helping with the distribution.”
For more information on helping with the continued relief effort, contact the Office of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement at (954) 262-7195.
