As we’re getting close to the end of the quarter, many of Bellevue College’s clubs and programs are conducting various different drives aimed to benefit the less fortunate and underprivileged. The Associated Student Government Toy Drive is receiving toy donations from Nov. 13 until Dec. 7. The Bellevue College Rotaract Club, together with the Center for Career Connections, the Women’s Center and ASG are conducting food drive that will go on until Dec. 14. Last but not least, the Black Student Union’s blanket drive is going on until the last day of fall quarter. Locations for each donation box varies but they all each have a donation box at the Student Programs in C-212.
The ASG is currently accepting donations of new toys at the Student Programs front desk until Dec. 7. Acceptable toys are for children ranging from two to 18 years old. ASG President Takhmina Dzhuraeva said that the toy drive is important to help children that are unable to afford them. Dzhuraeva also said that it is the smallest thing we could do to cheer children up. “Toys are a big part of my life. When you were a kid, they’re your friends when your friends are not around or if you don’t have any friends.”
The food drive sponsored by Bellevue College Rotaract Club, together with the Center for Career Connections, the Women’s Center, and ASG is accepting donations of canned foods and any kind of non-perishable food such as cake mix, canned beans and peanut butter, but any type of food donations are acceptable as well. The last day of donating foods is Dec. 14. Donation boxes are available in Student Programs (C-212), first floor of the Student Union (B building), Center for Career Connections & Women’s Center, N, R, L and G buildings’ lobby, the childcare center, Carlson Theater and lastly A-202.
President of Rotaract Club Ellie Kow said that the food drive will benefit students and those who are unable to afford food during the holidays. “We want to make sure everyone is happy and full!” Dzhuraeva said that food is one of basic needs of individuals. “Some people out there are unemployed or homeless and they do not have the means to buy food so by donating food.”
This quarter, the Black Student Union is also organizing a drive. The BSU is accepting donations of lightly used coats and blankets to be donated to the Salvation Army. Donations can be given to the Student Programs (C-212). Donations are collected until the end of fall quarter.
“Give yourself entirely to those around you. Be generous with your blessings. A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal,” by Steve Maraboli, author and philanthropist.