Carroll College senior Ella Hubach has organized a food drive through the Special Olympics Club to benefit the Friendship Center, after the organization reached out to Gender Studies faculty with an urgent request for help. The Friendship Center shared that they are in critical need of non-perishable, ready-to-eat meals that clients can easily take on the road or prepare in temporary housing such as a hotel room.
With the support of the Special Olympics Club members, athletes, and parents, along with faculty advisor Dr. Jamie Dolan, the food drive quickly came together. Ella recently visited the Friendship Center with the first round of donations. Staff members said they were “incredibly touched by the efforts” and that Ella’s visit made their day.
To make participation easier, collection boxes are being placed in O’Connell Hall for students, faculty, and staff to drop off donations in the coming weeks. Wish list items include: protein bars, oatmeal, mac & cheese cups, beef jerky, microwave meals, Cup of Noodles, fruit cups, pudding, snack packs, and single-serving chips or Goldfish.
“The Friendship Center plays such a vital role in Helena, and when they said they needed support, our community immediately stepped up,” said Hubach. “I’m so grateful to the Special Olympics Club, our athletes and families, and Dr. Dolan for helping make this food drive possible.”