BSGA provides gifts for angels

Nadia Galindo

Issue date: 12/3/07 Section: News

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Media Credit: Chris Vivero

Each year Brookhaven College Student Government Association illuminates the S Building lobby with an angel tree. The new tree is decorated with paper ornaments that have a child's name, age, favorite color and ideas for gifts. This year, gifts are going to children of women at the Genesis Women's Shelter. There are 150 angels ranging from infants to teenagers.

"We always choose a different organization; last year we did the Family Place," Vanessa Tapia, president of BSGA, said.

The angel tree was put up and decorated Nov. 19 by members of BSGA and employees of Student Programs and Resources. Tapia said she encourages students and faculty to participate by selecting an angel and purchasing a gift.

BSGA is also accepting donations for a clothing drive, which will go to the Genesis Women's Shelter.

Yasaman Contractor, coordinator of SPAR, said they are accepting gently used or new clothing to donate to the shelter. All gifts and clothes should be taken to the SPAR office by 5 p.m. Dec. 6 in S201.

Tapia said this is a great way to give back this holiday.

"It promotes charity during the Christmas season and reminds us to all think about other people who need help," Tapia said. "Our goal in student government is to get students involved and this is another way for them to get involved."

One angel is hoping for an American Girl doll this Christmas while another wants a LEGO set. Some of the angels are hoping to get basic things like clothes, hoop earrings or a winter jacket.

"It's rewarding to give to others in need," Contractor said. "We should make sure they have a wonderful holiday as well."

Contractor said this year's turnout is not as high as previous years but she said she hopes more students and faculty will contribute to this charity.

According to www.genesisshelter.org, the Genesis Women's Shelter offers free services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Some of the services include individual and group therapy, child therapy, parent training, school intervention and community education.

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