The Student Veterans Association is reaching out a hand of support to military families that lost almost everything during the recent tornados in Oklahoma. The SVA is collecting and delivering donations, toiletries, furniture and other household items to help these families get back on their feet.

One of the families sponsored has an adopted son with cerebral palsy who is confined to a wheelchair. They are particularly in need, having been struck twice by the recent storms in the state and sustained several injuries.

Items can be dropped of in the Veterans’ Lounge in the Student Union or in the Veteran Benefits office in the Grady Clack building.

Gift cards from Wal-Mart, Target, or Walgreens are also encouraged for the families to buy food and other necessities. Everyone on campus is encouraged to participate and reminded even small donations can make a huge difference to these families in need.

Questions about the drive and to make arrangements for larger donations can be directed to Chenoa Worthington, Veteran Benefits Coordinator, by email at chenoa.worthington@okstate.edu or phone at 918-293-4972.

Items being collected include pots and pans, plates and bowls, silverware, cups, baking dishes, kitchen towels, sponges, dish soap, laundry soap, brooms, mops, paper towels, trash bags, trash cans, bath towels and wash cloths, shampoo, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hair brushes, razors and shaving cream, wipes and toilet paper, adult diaper briefs (large), full and Queen size sheets, full and Queen size bed and mattress, pillows, clothes hangers, dressers, lamps, tables, couch, vacuum cleaner, TV, DVD player, and clock radios.

Student Veterans Association at OSUIT was formed in 2012 with a renewed commitment to former and present service members by providing resources, support and advocacy needed to succeed in higher education and following graduation.