TAMPA, Fla. — Hurricane Melissa took dozens of lives and left a trail of destruction in the Caribbean. On Saturday, several Tampa Bay chapters of fraternities and sororities from HBCUs collected food for hurricane victims.
What You Need To Know
Several Tampa Bay chapters of fraternities and sororities from HBCUs collected food for Hurricane Melissa victims
On Saturday, roughly 300 cans of food were donated and 30 cases of water
Organizers said donations can still be made at any Jerk Hut in Tampa
“We have fruits and veggies,” said volunteer Joshua Ritchie.
As donations came in, about 50 volunteers, including Joshua Ritchie, sorted through the canned goods and hygiene products and packed them up.
“To make sure we can do our part in our community … whatever we can do,” Ritchie said.
For the participating organizations, it’s all about giving back to the community. The idea for the food drive came to Cliff Green of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. while he was sitting on the couch at home.
“We just started to run with it. I start speaking to other members of the fraternity, and they were very supportive, and everybody’s just ready to do it. So that’s how it all came together,” Green said.
About 300 cans of food and 30 cases of water were donated during their three-hour food drive outside of the Christian Praise and Worship Center in Tampa.
“If we were going through the experience that they’re going through in this season, we would want someone to assist us, to help us in the time of need and for them right now, it’s great need,” said Reverend Dr. James Gallon, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.
It’s a great need that is starting to be filled with the help of the Tampa Bay community.
“It’s my duty to do so, it’s everybody’s duty to do so,” Ritchie said.
Organizers said donations can still be made at any Jerk Hut in Tampa.
They are working in connection with the Caribbean Community Association to make sure the donations get delivered.