This Friday, Nov. 8, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Southern Utah University’s students are invited to the Sharwan Smith Student Center Ballroom to participate in the second edition of the Cereal and Service event.
T-Birds will gather to tie blankets for homebound seniors in partnership with the Utah Food Bank organization while sharing a bowl of cereal. Special K Red Berries Cereal, Captain Crunch’s Oops! All Red Berries and other red-colored cereals will be available at the dedicated Red Friday bar.
Blankets and holiday greeting cards will be distributed along with meal boxes. Students will have the opportunity to write the cards at an upcoming event this semester.
Also honoring Red Friday, a wardrobe swap will take place at the event. By donating winter clothing such as jackets, sweaters or pants, students will receive a red SUU sweatshirt designed by Austin Mize, a member of SUU’s Student Spirit Board. It is a unique and limited edition; only 140 will be exchangeable.
Megan Lamb, the assistant to the vice president of programming at the Student Involvement and Leadership Office, is especially thrilled to implement this new feature.
“We want students to be able to feel included by getting red, that’s our goal with these sweatshirts,” said Lamb. “I’m excited to see everyone wearing them afterward.”
Pam Branin, director of the community engagement center, emphasized the efforts made to improve the overall impact of the event. While the blankets will be distributed to the Utah Food Bank, the clothing collected will be on display at SUU’s HOPE Pantry or donated to family shelters.
“I think that’s awesome, everyone wins,” said Branin.
Last fall semester, nearly 1,500 blankets were distributed to children with families in need of holiday assistance. While only 200 to 300 blankets are needed this year, the university hopes to exceed that target.
“It is just really fun to work with students and employees,” said Branin. “People who want to contribute and make our community better.”
For interested students, more information about the Community and Engagement Center can be found on their Instagram and website.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Editor: Heather Turner
Copy Editor: Kayd Johanson
Photos courtesy of SUU Student Life
life@suunews.net
