Contact: Maridith Geuder
STARKVILLE, Miss.--Despite current summer-like temperatures, a Mississippi State-led effort is seeking to collect thousands of overcoats and related wear that will help Gulf Coast children stay warm this winter.
Called "Warms the Coast," the clothing drive is being coordinated by the university's Bulldogs in Response task force formed after Hurricane Katrina. Continuing through MSU's final home football game Nov. 26 with the University of Mississippi, the project is co-chaired by athletic director Larry Templeton and his wife Linda Jo, and head football coach Sylvester Croom and his wife Jeri.
"We're encouraging anyone who wishes to provide a sweatshirt, blanket, jacket, fleece or down vests, or other outer wear to help those who are still in need following Hurricane Katrina," Templeton said.
Items are being collected 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays in the Humphrey Coliseum main lobby, located adjacent to the manager's office. Drop-offs also may be made prior to the football game at designated points along the west and east sides of Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field.
Donated items will be distributed through local coast school systems by the campus volunteers.
Coordinated by MSU first lady Pat Lee, the task force has focused on humanitarian assistance ranging from numerous cleanup projects to the delivery of more than 60,000 pieces of Halloween candy to nearly 10,000 South Mississippi kids.
Composed of faculty, staff and students, BIR teams have made seven relief trips so far to the massively damaged region. More than 200 from MSU have participated in the hands-on assistance.
For more information on Bulldogs in Response, telephone (662) 325-5825.