OTC students, staff contribute to Haiti effort

 

Ozarks Technical Community College students and staff are responding to the call for help from victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

A clothing drive, organized by Amy Thomas, Resource Counselor in the Disability Support Services department, has resulted in dozens of large, plastic bags of clothing being sent to earthquake victims and dozens more bags scheduled to be sent next week.

In addition to clothes, a large number of essential health and medical items, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, peroxide and first-aid kits, have been contributed.

Thomas said a Branson hotel, which recently changed its name, contributed dozens of T-shirts that contained the old name.

“I am amazed at how many responded so quickly.  We work in a generous environment here. With all the media attention, everyone is aware of what happened and all want to help. They were happy to have a place to contribute,” Thomas said, adding that she felt compelled to do something for the victims.

“I couldn’t imagine not doing something.”

The items are being sent to the French Speaking (Haitian) Baptist Church of St. Louis, which is sending the collections to Haiti. Thomas learned of the church’s efforts through a friend.

Gently used summer clothing and non-emergency medical supplies will continue to be collected until Feb. 11. Items can be brought to the Disability Support Services office, Information Commons East, Room 127, or by contacting Thomas at thomasam@otc.edu.

Steve Koehler is coordinator of publications for Ozarks Technical Community College. He can be contacted at koehlers@otc.edu.