Finlandia TRIO Programs Participate in MI TRIO “Give Back” Initiative. And they need your help!

As part of the upcoming MI TRIO Student Leadership Conference being delivered virtually on March 19 and 20, the FinnU TRIO Programs – Upward Bound, Talent Search and Student Support Services – are teaming up to hold a drive for the Finlandia University Student Table located in the basement of the Chapel of St. Matthew. TRIO students across the state will be holding “give back” events in the name of Geri Graham, past MI TRIO Board President and long-time champion of TRIO students. Geri is the Upward Bound Director at Oakland University in Pontiac, MI.

“The Table is a student needs pantry located in the lower level of the Chapel of Saint Matthew,” said Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith. “It is free and open to any student, with the only requirement that they sign in when they visit. The Table has not only food and fresh produce, but cold weather gear, toiletries, and school supplies. It’s open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is funded by donations. One thing that is expensive and disappears off my shelves quickly in this season are tea and coffee. Another constant need is for quick snacks: granola or energy bars, individually packaged nuts or packs of crackers/popcorn. All donations of your choosing are appreciated!”

TRIO students have placed brightly colored plastic tubs in the Maki Library, the hall outside of the TRIO SSS/TLC space, The Jutila Center and the Hirvonen Building. Donations will be accepted through March 19. Donations can also be dropped off directly at the Chapel of St. Matthew.

We are in challenging times. Finlandia students rely regularly on the table to make their food budgets stretch. Let’s step up in a big way and give back to The Table. Please direct any questions to Zoe Lincoln, TRIO SSS at zoe.lincoln@finlandia.edu.