Through the end of January, the Office of Student Life is collecting new and gently used coats and jackets to benefit those in need.

Students, faculty and staff are urged to drop off donated coats and jackets to Pat Singleton or Dustin Goodno at Covelle Hall by Tuesday, Jan. 31.

The donated items will be given to the Deep Fork Community Action Foundation, a nonprofit organization that offers assistance to those in Okmulgee and the surrounding area.

“A lot of people don’t have coats, so it’s good for us to donate. Some people are less fortunate and aren’t able to go out and purchase a coat. Some people have lost their belongings,” said Goodno, Student Life activities coordinator. “It’s good for the community here on campus to be able to come together and donate to a good cause. I couldn’t imagine going through winter without a jacket or a coat.”

The coat drive is the latest community service project the Student Life office has organized. Each month Student Life offers a different service project or campaign for students and staff to take part in that benefits the community.

“Volunteering shows that our students are engaged within the community of Okmulgee. I also believe it is the right thing to do for them,” Goodno said. “Whether the student is from Okmulgee or not, they are part of this community while enrolled at OSUIT. At the end of the day, when a student participates in community service, it’s a win-win for the student and our institution.”

If anyone has an idea or suggestion for a future service project, please contact Dustin Goodno at dgoodno@okstate.edu or by calling the Student Life office at 918-293-4942.