In an amazing show of compassion and generosity, the students, faculty, and staff at Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, have opened their hearts and campus to those people who fled their home in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
The entire University community has embraced helping those who have lost everything.
For two days, the University has collected towels, rags, toiletries, sheets, pillows, food, water, books, toys, first aid supplies, diapers, and much more. Everyone from students, faculty, staff, community members, churches, and local businesses have contributed items to help the evacuees.
These items will be distributed to approximately 240 people who will be housed in Talbot Hall on the University campus. All items that are not used by those on campus will be sent down south to those who need them.
“I am overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and the kindness and compassion they have shown” said Dr. Donna Allen, vice president for student affairs at SAU. “Their hard work has made me proud to work here.”
According to Sandra Smith, director of the Residential College and Mule.Org, student organizations will meet soon to organize events and programs for those staying on campus.
“We will continue to support these people the entire time they are on our campus,” she said.
Members of the SAU marching band have collected toys to be given away to the kids during a hamburger cookout on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eastside Park.
“We wanted to do a little something for the kids,” said J.P. Wilson, director of bands at SAU. “We want to get the families out of their hotel rooms and offer them a good time.”
SAU faculty and staff will cook hamburgers and hot dogs and will have chips, drinks, and cookies.
Kids will also have an opportunity to get their faces painted, ride ponies, and play games.
