University News
Donations Accepted for "Paw Pails" to Aid Flood Victims
July 3, 2008
MACOMB, IL -- The rivers have crested and waters are receding, but many people living along the mighty Mississippi River are now facing what might be their most daunting task: cleaning up after the flood.
To ease in the clean-up efforts, the Western Illinois University Civil Service Employee Council (CSEC) isseeking donations for "Paw Pails," five-gallon buckets -- named in honor of Western's Rocky mascot -- filled with necessary cleaning supplies and other items. The pails will be delivered to the American Red Cross for distribution to individuals living along the river who have been displaced by flood waters.
"The people who had to flee their homes and who have been living elsewhere during the flooding should not have to worry about what they need to purchase or what supplies they need to get to begin the clean-up process. We hope that the 'Paw Pails' helps them get back into their homes as quickly as possible," said Greg Phelps, interim CSEC public relations representative.
The CSEC is currently taking donations for "Paw Pails" materials -- each bucket will contain items listed below. Items must be donated by Thursday, July 17. Cash donations are also welcome to purchase the items; make checks payable to the CSEC and send to Phelps at Malpass Library Acquisitions Department by Tuesday, July 15. According to Phelps, the cost to assemble each kit is $50, and all items must be new.
"I'd like to thank the Civil Service Employees Council for their initiative and the Council of Administrative Personnel for their assistance," said Vice President for Administrative Services (VPAS) Jackie Thompson. "I encourage every WIU faculty and staff member to donate anything they can to help those in need."
The CSEC also invited volunteers to help assemble the "Paw Pails" Friday, beginning at 2:30 p.m. July 18 in the Malpass Library Acquisitions department. For more information on the flood relief efforts, contact Phelps at 309/298-2730.
ITEMS NEEDED FOR EACH "PAW PAIL":
• Five-gallon bucket with resealable lid
• Bleach (Two 1-qt. bottles or one 82-oz. bottle)
• Two collapsible tool handles with two tool attachments (push broom and squeegee, 1-ft. or less width)
• Five scouring pads
• Seven sponges
• One scrub brush
• 18 cleaning towels (reusable wipes)
• Liquid laundry detergent (one 25-oz. bottle)
• 1 household cleaner (12-16 oz. bottle)
• Disinfectant dish soap (16-28 oz. bottle)
• 50 clothespins
• Clothesline (two 50-ft. or one 100-ft.)
• Five dust masks
• Two pair latex-free gloves
• One pair work gloves
• 24 bag roll of heavy duty trash bags (33-45 gallon)
• 1 insect repellent spray (6-14 oz. can; must have cap)
Drop-off locations include: Malpass Library Administrative Office; University Union Service Desk; Physical Plant; VPAS and Human Resources (Sherman Hall); Donald S. Spencer Student Recreation Center; College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Office (Morgan
Hall); and the Business Advising Center (Stipes Hall).
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
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