The Associated Students of the University of New Mexico put together hygiene packages for students and individuals struggling with housing and food insecurity.
The effort was spearheaded by the ASUNM community service agency, Community Experience. With help from volunteers, they assembled the packets together on Oct. 23.
The packages included soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, pads, Emergen-C packets and hygiene wipes.
“This is something for anyone struggling,” said Rebecca Faulkner, the executive director for Community Experience.
The packages will be at different locations on campus, including the Dean of Students Office, LoboRESPECT advocacy center, the Women’s Resource Center and the ASUNM office.
“Right now we have about 120 to 100 (packages),” said Lynn Midani, the project director for Community Experience.
The donations come from community members and ASUNM. Faulkner said ASUNM President Becka Myers asked Community Experience if they could organize the event.
In a written statement, Myers said, “At this time of year, it’s especially important that we focus the conversation toward students who may face housing challenges. Whether that means living out of a car or couch surfing during finals, I know many Lobos struggle finding a place to go home to each night.”
Community Experience holds various programs and drives throughout the year. They are responsible for Fall Frenzy, a fall cleanup and campus beautification program. They also hold various food drives and the upcoming Halloween Blood Drive in the Student Union Building from the Oct. 31 to Nov. 1. The agency also has student volunteer hours from 1 to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays.
“Next week we’re doing Zoo Boo. It’s an alternative trick or treat for kids at the BioPark. And we’re going to facilitate games and dress up in kid friendly costumes,” Faulkner said. “This is something we want to continue with this after the event.”
Sol Traverso is a freelance news reporter at the Daily Lobo. He can be contacted by email at news@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @SolTraversonic.
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