Lend A Hand Day is an opportunity for local residents, students, faculty and staff to donate clothing, nonperishable food, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, baby products, school supplies and used books to families in need.

"Lend A Hand Day provides hope for families and children throughout the city of Muncie," said Ball State sophomore Katie Wiese, program co-chair from Chesterton. "This program has a long history and tradition associated with Ball State and Student Voluntary Services. Lend A Hand Day relies on the support and generosity of our community members."

Items may be dropped off in marked barrels located throughout campus in academic buildings and residence halls as well as the Office of Leadership and Service Learning, located in L. A. Pittenger Student Center, room 118.

Recipients of the donations are Muncie families in need and members of the community referred to the program by local nonprofit agencies. About 300 people were helped in 2002.

Donations will be distributed April 5 at the Muncie YWCA.

For further information, contact Student Voluntary Services at (765) 285-1094 or SVS@bsu.edu.