Released September 28, 2005

Hattiesburg– The University of Southern Mississippi’s operations on the Gulf Coast are open for business after several weeks of clean up and relocation. Over 125 colleagues involved in this effort lost most or all of their possessions, and no longer have clothes that are suitable for a professional work environment. The Faculty Senate, Staff Council and the Division of Student Affairs are working together to solve this problem.

We are aware that many of you also suffered losses, so, for those who are able, you are being asked to donate clothing items that are suitable for a professional/casual work environment. If you are able to donate 2 or 3 new or good quality used clothing items, please deliver these items to the Information Desk located on the west side of the Union lobby. For convenience, you may drive up to the east side of the Union (between Union and stadium) between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., park, and deliver your donation. Your donations will be accepted Monday – Thursday of next week, September 26-29. Delivery to the gulf coast campus will take place on Friday, September 30. Please note that this clothing drive is being promoted only among our campus community members.

Because irons, washing machines, and dry-cleaning businesses may not be readily available, it is suggested that in addition to business work clothes, more practical business/casual items be donated. This will provide an opportunity to select items suitable for their job responsibilities.

The goal is to present your donations in an organized, professional manner designed to uplift individuals. Please use the following format to deliver items.

• Good quality used items should be clean

• Clothing should be neatly folded or placed on hangers

• Sizes should be easy to identify (many times there are no sizes in men’s dress pants)

• New socks and underwear

• Shoes, purses, belts, and ties

• All donated items should be delivered in sturdy boxes (not plastic bags). Please place hangers in the box for dresses, blouses, jackets, pants, and men’s shirts. Polo shirts should be folded. Items such as shoes, purses, and belts should be in a box separate from clothing. On the outside of the box, please indicate the contents and size of the items inside.

If you would like to volunteer to help with the sorting and display of items, please contact Barbara Ross at 266-4396. Thank you for helping to make this a successful endeavor.

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