Published: June 27, 2008 10:16 pm         

Ivy Tech donates clothes, school supplies in flood assistance

TERRE HAUTE — Ivy Tech Community College has donated new clothing and school supplies to Covenant Cooperative Ministry as part of its effort to assist flood victims.

On Friday, Ivy Tech Chancellor Jeff Pittman and other employees delivered more 330 new clothing items, which included sweatshirts, jackets, T-shirts and even some children’s clothing.

In addition, more than 3,000 pens and other school supplies were delivered.

The donated items are excess inventory resulting from the college’s partnership with Follett. Follett assumes management responsibilities of Ivy Tech’s 27 bookstores statewide beginning Monday. Until now, Ivy Tech had managed its own bookstores.

“We had the option to sell back this excess inventory to Follett. But because the recent flooding in the Wabash Valley has touched the lives of so many of our employees and students, we felt this was one way that Ivy Tech-Wabash Valley could contribute to the recovery effort,” Pittman said.

The retail value of the merchandise is about $10,000, he said. “We couldn’t think of a better way to use this inventory.”

Covenant Cooperative Ministry at 122 S. 101/2 St. is offering assistance to flood victims and is beginning to focus on long-term recovery support for the families devastated by recent flooding.

“One of the main requests we’re getting from those devastated by the floods is for new clothing, or clothing of any kind, so this will go a long way in meeting those needs,” said Rose Aycock, CCM executive director.

CCM has other items available to flood victims, including shoes, beauty products and hygiene products. They will be distributed by appointment starting Monday.

To be eligible, flood victims must have a Federal Emergency Management Agency registration number and picture ID.

For more information, or to call for an appointment, call Aycock at (812) 478-7700. Distribution will occur from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

CCM is a not-for-profit, faith-based social services ministry.