Students hold veterans clothing drive

United States soldiers have sacrificed so much in their lives in order to provide security and freedom to the country throughout history. A group of Waynesburg University students is showing their gratitude towards veterans by holding a clothing drive around the Waynesburg community.

“Anytime you can give back it is awesome,” group leader Jansen Knotts said. “It means a lot because of the amount of stuff they give back to us.”

The students are doing the project as a part of their leadership and stewardship class with Wesley Hershelman, instructor of business administration. The project is geared towards developing a solution to a problem in the community. Knotts leads the group of students that also features Todd Burner, Adam Huckestein and Zyan Wallace.

“We were trying to think of something that would impact the community in Waynesburg’s area,” Knotts said. “We just want to give back to a community that has helped us so much.”

“Their project is admirable and has the potential to bless the lives of those who have committed their lives to serving our country,” Hershelman said. “It is a blessing to watch the students in the class serve the community in unique and impactful ways.”

Knotts’ group was motivated to do this project as each member has a family tie to the armed forces. His grandfather served in the Vietnam War and was inspired to give back to the community that he is a part of.

“[My grandfather] has a large impact on me and how I carry myself,” Knotts said.

The clothing drive lasts until April 22. Items in need include clothing, shoes and household items, like blankets, sheets, quilts, towels and tablecloths. It is preferred that clothing items are new or only lightly worn.

“We want to collect clothes, not just for the veterans themselves, but their whole families,” Knotts said. “There’s a lot of families in need.”

Currently there are six locations, but Knotts hopes that number will continue to grow. Donation areas are located around the community in areas like Giant Eagle, Eva K. Bowlby Library and more.

So far, Knotts said local businesses have been “very supportive” of the group’s effort in the clothing drive.

Knotts’ group hopes to achieve multiple goals for the clothing drive.

“Hopefully we achieve all of them,” Knotts said. “I’m very proud of the work that my group has done so far.”

The first goal is to collect 300 items through the rest of the semester; their  second goal, which they’ve already achieved, was forming a relationship and connection with local businesses; and  their last goal is to make the project sustainable.

“I am pleased by the team’s goals and value the efforts they are making to carry out Waynesburg University’s mission of connecting faith, learning and service,” Hershelman said.

Hershelman foresees success for Knotts’ group and project.

“I am excited for Jansen’s team and believe they will be successful from their efforts regarding this project,” Hershelman said.