By now, you’ve all seen powerful images of devastation from Hurricane Katrina, one of the most destructive hurricanes on record. Experts predict as many as one million people will be homeless and so many more will be left with deplorable living conditions.
Hokies, we know this is a desperate situation, and those survivors need our help. Our alumni chapter proudly supports the Houston Food Bank annually in our commission to provide a community service. The food bank network is coordinated with other disaster relief organizations such as the Red Cross. When Allison flooded Houston, our city was given tremendous support by our sister food banks on the Gulf Coast. Now it’s Houston’s turn to lend them a hand. And, as alumni representing our university, our chapter, and our local community, it’s our duty and will to respond to our neighbors in need. Here’s how you can help:
FOOD BANK DONATIONS:
The chapter regularly collects donations during our sports events gatherings at SRO’s. This season, our members are urged to make a commitment to bring donations to any/all gatherings, especially as this situation requires a sustained effort over several months, not days. Volunteers will be on hand to collect donations and deliver them to the Food Bank.
Even if you are not interested in staying to watch the game, but you’d like to drop off a donation, please feel welcome to come inside and do so!
If drop-off is impractical, please consider a financial donation (see below).
Come by SRO’s with your donation. For coming events, check the calendar, or go to: http://www.hokiesports.com/football/schedule.html
For more information, map and directions to Houston Hokies gatherings, check out the new webpage.
SRO Sports Bar & Café – Champions
6982 W FM 1960 at Cutten Rd.
(281) 537-0691
VOLUNTEERS! We are investigating additional opportunities for volunteer assistance. At this time, it would be very helpful to organize additional drop-off locations, given the size of our city. This can be as simple as meeting in a parking lot at a major shopping center on a specified date to collect donations. Heavy duty, labeled boxes are provided by the Food Bank. Transportation arrangements are possible with the Food Bank. If anyone is interested in getting involved, please email me at setyree@houston.rr.com, or call (281) 240-0464.
The Food Bank asks for the following items:
• Paper goods – plates, cups, diapers, tissue
• Cleaning supplies – bleach, ammonia cleaners, sponges, etc.
• Water – bottled drinking water in plastic containers
• Single-serving snacks such as Pop-Tarts and cereal bars
• Peanut butter
• Heat and eat foods – chili, stew, canned pasta with sauce, canned vegetables and fruits
• Lunchables or other single-serving foods that do not require refrigeration
• MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat)
• Financial Donations welcome (see note)
(For more information on the relief campaign, go to: http://www.houstonfoodbank.org/Katrina.htm)
FINANCIAL DONATIONS:
The Houston Food Bank and the Houston Alumni Chapter maintain responsibility for your privacy, and will not release your personal or financial information.
1) Make a check payable to “Houston Food Bank”
2) Write “VTAA Houston Chapter” on the memo line
3) Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope to ensure receipt for your tax-deductible donation.
4) Mail to: Shelley Tyree, 14102 Anson Grove Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77478.
