The Ross Medical Education Center campus team in Saginaw, Michigan has had an unusually big heart the past couple of months as both domestic violence and homelessness has hit close to home. The staff, faculty, and students were inspired to not only to help their own but also to reach out to surrounding area. The team decided to collect items for the Underground Railroad, a local organization, and students attending school at the campus that needed assistance as well.
Crystal Sanders, an Underground Railroad representative, came into the campus to speak to staff, faculty, and students about her organization. She reported that almost every time she comes to speak about the Underground Railroad and what services they provide, “it never fails, that at least one person will come to me after I speak to ask for more information for either themselves or someone they know.” She also talked about their mission statement: “We serve all residents of Saginaw County who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human slavery. The Underground Railroad has be in operation since 1977. It is the only provider of emergency shelter, services, leadership, and programs to end domestic and sexual violence in the community.”
Knowing that these services exist for those in need is half the battle. Apryl Blossom, Office Assistant, was excited to be a part of supporting those in need, “if we helped just one person this month, it makes all of this worthwhile!” Crystal told the students that “domestic and sexual violence do not discriminate. Every race, religion, and economic group is affected. Annually the Underground Railroad provides over 14,000 families in Saginaw county access to one or more of our services.”
After her visit, Crystal was able to leave a wishlist for the organization and flyers were posted all over the campus beginning in January. In response to learning about the organization, many students and staff stepped up and donated what they could to help the women and children who need help. Those at Ross in Saginaw are continuing to collect items and will take these items over to the shelter as donations come in even after the donation time is over.