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Faculty, staff and students donate supplies for foster care youth

Last month, Daniel Ball, an MSW student intern at Strong Able Youth Speaking Out (SAYSO), and the School’s Social Work Student Organization (SoWoSO), teamed up to collect items for youth in foster care, who sometimes must move in and out of care using trash bags. A donation box was located in the School’s lobby for a week, with the proceeds going towards SAYSO’s Give a Child a Smile suitcase drive.

Ball reports that the drive was a huge success. On Oct. 25, SAYSO hosted a program for about 50 foster care youth, at which they distributed the supplies.

“The faculty, staff, and students at UNC collected or donated nearly 300 duffle bags, backpacks and suitcases. They also contributed an enormous amount of hygiene items, socks, blankets, and other items,” said Ball. “SAYSO and I would like to thank all of you for your dedication and support of foster youth in North Carolina. Many children were given a smile thanks to your thoughtfulness. Again, thank you.”