Students organize donation drive for victims of Hurricane Katrina

September 1, 2005

Two student organizations at Miami University Hamilton are spearheading an effort to collect toiletries and monetary donations to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Shelley Cassady, Director of the Co-Op/Internship and Placement Office, who volunteered to help students coordinate the effort said, "Students sprang into action today contacting the American Red Cross to see what could be done."

Student Government and the Organization for Wiser Learners (OWLS), encourage faculty, staff and students to donate non-perishable, non-toxic toiletries and/or monetary donations to aid the victims.

According to Cassady, the Lowe's store in Hamilton will match monetary donations collected up to $1 million. Checks should be made payable to Lowe's. The memo line must include the phrase, “American Red Cross Donation.” There also will be a Hurricane Katrina change/cash donation jar in the Office of Student Services.

Toiletry items and money donations should be brought to the Office of Student Services, 130 Rentschler Hall. From there, campus volunteers will deliver items to the staff of the Butler County Sheriff's Department, who are currently making several trips to the ravaged areas.

Examples of toiletry items include personal and cleaning products such as: shampoo, Kleenex, toilet paper, body soap, hand soap, toothpaste, deodorant, baby care products (diapers, wipes, powder, lotion), Soft Scrub, sponges, disinfectants, antibacterial soaps, dishwashing soap, toothbrushes, disposable razors, shaving cream, washcloths, combs and brushes (new), dental floss, mouthwash, eye care products, and sanitary napkins.

Organizers stress no can goods, clothing or food items at this time. However, bottled water will be accepted.

For additional information, please contact Student Services at 785-3211.