After Hurricane Ian caused mass destruction and devastation in Florida in late September, Kristen Pennisi ’22 knew she had to do something to help her Fort Myers neighbors — and she knew just who to ask. She called on her St. Joseph’s University, New York family to assist by hosting a donation drive.
Partnering with professors and staff, Campus Ministry at the University’s Long Island Campus is organizing a collection of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, shoes, socks, blankets and non-perishable items such as canned foods. Donations will go to families who have lost their homes and loved ones within the Dr. Carrie D. Robinson Littleton Elementary School community in the Lee County School District.
Three schools were destroyed in the storm, and numerous other district buildings sustained devastating damage.
To help support our educators and students, @FoundationLCPS has set up a relief fund. Thank you for your help!https://t.co/AyzNm9CThZ#loveleeschools #leeschools #schooldistrictofleecounty #HurricaneIan
— School District of Lee County (@LeeSchools) October 2, 2022
“We got an email from Kristen, a member of our St. Joe’s community who was in need of help for her community,” explained Cristian Murphy ’14, director of Campus Ministry. “It was a situation that we wanted to help with and we found this request a great way to get involved and help.”
Donations will be accepted at the Office of Campus Ministry, located in O’Connor Hall, Student Hospitality Lounge, Room 4, and will be sent to the Dr. Carrie D. Robinson Littleton Elementary School, via SJNY alum Kristen Pennisi.
If you wish to make a monetary donation, Campus Ministry asks that you do so via the Harry Chapin Food Bank.
Below is a recent update on the hurricane recovery efforts in Lee County schools from the district’s superintendent, Christopher S. Bernier, Ed.D.
