Freshman Forum aims to bring Easter magic

Troy University Freshman Forum is looking to bring smiles to young faces with their newest initiative, an Easter Drive, which aims to collect Easter themed items for the pediatric unit at Troy Regional Medical Center.

Some of the items they are looking for include stuffed animals, cozy socks, crayons and coloring books.

“Easter time is such a reflection of what a blessing that life is,” said Elle Blackmon, president of Freshman Forum and a communications major from Spanish Fort, Alabama. “This to me is really important because I know the impact it has to give to something bigger than yourself.”

Freshman Forum members also expressed their gratitude towards being able to participate in the initiative.

“You don’t really think of the direct effects that happen, and being able to see that firsthand has been really special,” Blackmon said.

Caleb Price, Freshman Forum community service chair and history major from Slocomb, Alabama, agreed. After spending much of his childhood in hospitals himself, he hopes to bring joy to kids in similar situations.

“Through this drive, I hope to put a smile on the faces of kids struggling with any kind of health issues at Troy Regional,” Price said.

“It means something to me personally, and it just makes me and my hardworking committee very happy to know that the things we raise in this drive will have an impact on the lives of kids who are in need of a happy moment.”

The organization is looking to take as many donations as possible and would like to encourage anyone who is able to donate to do so.

“My biggest encouragement would just be to reflect on what you have and what you’ve been given,” Blackmon said. “If you could make a child’s day by donating a coloring book or a stuffed animal, then please do it.”

The organization will be accepting donations until Wednesday, April 9. All donations can be dropped off in the donation boxes at the Student Involvement Office in Trojan Center 215.

Freshman Forum and SGA frequently lead similar drives and initiatives. Anyone looking to stay updated on future initiatives can follow @troysga and @troyfreshmanforum on social media.