Helping to build a successful community is part of Wayne State University's urban mission. Lending helpful hands to uplift those in need is a critical cornerstone.

Through April 24, the Wayne State University Athletics Department “W” Week Community Service Initiative, in partnership with Wayne Cares, and Covenant House Michigan, is hosting a drive to collect small toiletry items to make basic needs bags for those in need in our community.

Last year, the Wayne State community and WSU student-athletes and staff collected more than 40,000 items for the Basic Needs Drive and created more than 1,300 basic needs bags.  

The goal this year is to collect enough items to create 1,500 basic needs bags (if not more) for the community.

On the morning of April 24, Wayne State University student-athletes will sort, assemble and distribute the bags directly to homeless individuals in and around Cass Park. They will also donate items to Covenant House Michigan for delivery to homeless and at-risk youth through its Street Outreach Program and at its shelter.

Since 2011, more than 110,000 items have been collected and distributed. 

For more information, contact WSU Athletics Senior Woman Administrator Candice L. Howard at 313-577-3048.