Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
This month, the Lang Center for Civic and Social Responsibility is holding a toiletry drive as part of United Way’s sixteenth annual “Days of Caring” event. Days of Caring (this year, the dates were September 15th and September 19th) are a time for volunteers nationwide to contribute to the well-being of their communities through partnership with nonprofit agencies.
Although the Days of Caring are a one-time event, they set the stage for a new year of service and community growth. Swarthmore’s Lang Center entered into the spirit of the event by initiating a month-long project. “From the database of [suggested] projects and activities, I chose to have Swarthmore help by collecting toiletries and personal hygiene products for Family and Community Service of Delaware County,” said Cynthia Jetter, the College’s Director for Community Partnerships and Planning. She added that the items will benefit residents of Delaware County who “are HIV positive or have AIDS.”
Toiletry collection boxes will remain available until September 30th, possibly longer if the project becomes a long-term one. Boxes are located in the Lang Center, the main entrance of Sharples, the Kohlberg Coffee Bar, and the Shane Student Lounge in Parrish. “We need many more donations!” said Jetter. The list of requested items includes toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, toilet paper, Band-Aids, lotion, shampoo and conditioner, men’s shaving supplies, and bar soap.
