by L.A. Warren
Volunteers at Jackson State University loaded goods collected at campus sites into a transport truck in September to deliver those items to flood victims in Crosby, Mississippi, after the town was deluged over the summer.
Dr. Ricardo Brown, dean of the College of Public Service, assisted in the student-led effort. He said, “There was serious flooding in Mississippi. … So, we collected items. Students, as well as faculty, staff and administration, set up a drive supporting the victims.” The campaign also received monetary donations.
The initiative started with people donating supplies at the downtown campus and Student Center. State Rep. Angela Cockerham, a JSU alum, represents the affected neighborhoods in southwestern Mississippi.
Although hard hit by rainwater, the area, unfortunately, did not qualify for federal disaster funds. As a result, the campus community decided to help.
Brown said, “Our main goal was to provide cleaning supplies and water so victims could get back into their homes.”
Items collected on the first floor of the main drop-off site at the JSU Student Center included water, cleaning supplies, paper products, school supplies and wipes.
SGA Vice President Isaac Gaines said, “This effort will help bring comfort to a number of area residents and show our compassion to the state.”