As part of their community outreach, the UM Staff Senate's latest project is to collect new school supplies and backpacks for James McHenry Elementary & Middle School, one of our neighbors in West Baltimore. As always, the Staff Senate tries to include the entire campus in getting involved in the projects they work on.

Earlier this year, the Staff Senate members completed a very successful drive for the Ronald McDonald House -- collecting much-needed items for their food pantry for the families that are housed there on a daily basis. Just this past month, they hosted a cookout with food they provided, prepared and served at the Ronald McDonald House for the families. Their current project -- collecting new school supplies -- is now is full swing, and as the new school year approaches your donations are needed. The backpacks and school supplies will be distributed at their "Back-to-School Night" being held on August 22. Please consider purchasing a few of the much-needed items for these children.

Now is the perfect time to take advantage of the great sales in stores like Walmart, Office Depot, Staples, etc. For as little as five or ten dollars it is amazing how many items you can purchase. Any donation, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. There are many drop boxes located around the campus for your convenience in donating. School of Social Work donors are asked to drop off items to Pat Boland in Room 1W09. With your generosity, we can make this a great start to the new school year for many children!