Penn State students rally to provide hurricane relief

Written by Danielle Egick

Even though Hurricane Sandy took it easy on Happy Valley, areas in New York and New Jersey were hit devastatingly hard. Houses and lives have been erased in the wake of the disaster, and many have been left homeless and unprepared. Union Beach, Jersey City, and Long Beach Island are just a few of the towns devastated by this intense hurricane.

Many Penn State students’ families and hometowns have been affected by the storm and, to show support, Penn State students are coming together this week to raise awareness and collect goods to help those whose homes and belongings were destroyed in the storm.

These public events encourage everyone to drop off food and other items. Donations such as clothing, batteries, food, and personal items are needed.

Local businesses are helping the cause as well. Kiwi, a popular downtown frozen yogurt stand, is having a discount and donation night on November 7, and Jersey Mike’s is accepting non-perishable foods and items for the victims.

Many Penn State organizations are asking members to donate at their weekly meetings and sending the profits to the American Red Cross, food banks, or directly to the area affected. Financial contributions are encouraged as well.

Members of SAE are organizing a Sandy Relief Drive. Donations of non-perishable food items and other necessities are being accepted at 200 East Beaver Avenue through November 9. Suggested items include baby formula, peanut butter, soup, canned fruit, and D batteries.

Several blood drives have also been scheduled on Penn State’s campus this week, including Thursday in Rec Hall and Friday in the HUB. Both blood drives will be open from 9:00am-3:00pm.

Image courtesy of Annemarie Mountz Live.psu.edu