Four Students Lead Bags of Hope Drive to Stock Hygiene Supplies

Four social work students at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock have launched a collection drive for hygiene products that runs through November 18. The initiative, known as Bags of Hope, seeks to gather everyday items that are often overlooked as winter weather sets in.

Ahmed Alnomani, Leah Beaumont, Jasmine Kearney, and Trinity Louden are organizing the effort. They work with The Van, a local nonprofit that serves people experiencing homelessness. Grace Maddox, a student interning with the organization, assists with the project by helping with outreach and sorting donations.

The group began the drive by identifying gaps in current inventory. Alnomani noted that dry socks are frequently forgotten but can improve a person's day. The students aim to provide items that support the dignity of their neighbors while also preparing for colder temperatures.

Maddox has observed The Van's operations firsthand during her internship. She emphasized the importance of building relationships with clients rather than simply distributing goods. Her role involves preparing supplies and communicating with the community to ensure the right items reach the right people.

Louden stated that the drive serves as a reminder to look closely at those who are struggling. She expressed a desire to ensure individuals receive the same care and attention they would provide to a loved one. Kearney added that the project allows the campus and local communities to unite in providing necessary resources.

The most requested items include socks, gloves, underwear, bar soap, menstrual products, and Neosporin. Additional needed supplies are hand warmers, oral hygiene kits, hair care items, deodorant, lotion, lip balm, wet wipes, bandages, antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer, flashlights, sunscreen, and batteries.

Donors can drop off items at three locations on the UA Little Rock campus: the fourth floor of Ross Hall in the School of Social Work, the main lobby of Ottenheimer Library, and the main lobby of the School of Nursing. Boxes are also available at various businesses in Little Rock and Bryant. The organization accepts donations until November 18. Questions can be sent to the provided email address, and more information about The Van is available at itsthevan.org.