MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College Associated Student Body (ASB) officers recently assembled and delivered 100 emergency hygiene support kits to New Hope Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services.
Each emergency hygiene kit contains deodorant, a washcloth, body soap, shampoo and conditioner, a toothbrush and toothpaste, hair ties, a hairbrush, socks, and lotion. The kits will be handed out as needed to those who use New Hope’s services.
Big Bend ASB officers have supported New Hope by donating hygiene kits to the organization for the past three years. Officers during the 2017-18 academic year initially came up with the idea after hearing about the success of a similar project while attending a conference.
And seeing how useful the kits are, their successors have made sure to keep the project going.
New Hope works with survivors, educators, and community partners to help put an end to sexual assault and domestic violence. The organization runs a 24-hour crisis line and provides medical, legal and community advocacy for victims.
“I think it is an incredible experience to be able to help New Hope. It is an incredible resource that is available to the families in Grant County,” said ASB programming director Anna Yarbro. “I am so glad ASB was able to contribute to the cause.”
While dropping off the kits, ASB officers also got to meet some of the New Hope staff, learn more about the work they do in the community and take a tour of their space.
“The staff at the New Hope facility were the most passionate people I’ve met, who work hard to provide a safe space for families that are in need. During our tour of the facility, I witnessed the care and dedication they took to provide a comfortable environment for the families and visitors,” said ASB Vice President Jocelyn Lopez. “Having the opportunity to learn about the services they provide was a great experience that allowed me to familiarize myself with the great things that are taking place in our community for people that need it most.”
The hygiene kits are just one of the group’s ongoing community service projects. ASB also hosts several blood drives on campus each year.
“I am proud of our students, and of their willingness to help others in their community. Our ASB officers set intentional service-oriented goals early in the year to give back through community projects and we are working to meet those goals,” said BBCC Director of Student Programs Kim Jackson. “Helping New Hope has been an ongoing project over the years that not only impacts the community, but has created a greater connection with our ASB leaders. These student leaders have been a great group to work with, in serving both our campus and the community.”
ASB Executive Officers include: Madison Shrope, president; Lopez, Vice President; Miguel Preciado, Secretary; Kelsey Sorenson, Public Relations Officer and Yarbro, programming director.