VCU Staff Senate warms up neighboring middle school with coat drive

By Michala Smith
University News Services

The Virginia Commonwealth University Staff Senate’s coat drive for Richmond Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Richmond resulted in nearly 200 children receiving winter coats.

“This school was in need of winter apparel for the winter season,” said Karen Bryant, senator, VCU Staff Senate. 

The purpose of the drive was to collect coats, hats, scarves and gloves for youth in the community. Staff senate members, faculty, students and community members donated clothing to sites on both the Monroe Park and MCV campuses.

According to Bryant, the Staff Senate collected about 180 coats and a large number of gloves, hats and scarves, and the items were delivered to the school prior to the students’ winter break. 

Bryant says the VCU Staff Senate plans to continue its outreach programs throughout the community. Upcoming projects include tutoring sessions for students and a school supply drive next fall.

“Wherever there is a need to bridge the gap with the community and university, we will be there.” said Bryant.

The VCU Staff Senate serves to support the diverse staff of VCU and the VCU Health System by facilitating communication and making responsible decisions to meet the current and future needs of the university community. For more, visit http://www.vcu.edu/staffsenate/.