CLEVELAND — Anticipating an influx of refugees to northeast Ohio, both from Ukraine and elsewhere, Cleveland State University groups are organizing a supply drive “to help refugees rebuild their lives in safety with dignity.”

Cleveland State has donation bins setup in the university’s Tutoring and Academic Success Center, the Michael Schwartz Library entrance, the CSU Rec Center entrance, the Euclid Commons lobby and the Student Center Atrium facing Euclid Avenue.

CSU is asking for donations through April 15 for the following items:

 

  • Canned goods and nonperishable food items: especially beans, vegetables, soups, chili, peanut butter, coffee and tea
  • Backpacks/clothing in child and adult sizes: especially bookbags/backpacks, pillowcases, shorts and pants, shoes, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, gloves, business casual attire (all brand new or very gently used)
  • Toiletries: especially sponges, toilet paper, toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, combs and brushes, soap and towels of all sizes
  • Toys for younger children (all brand new or very gently used)
  • Visa gift cards of varying denominations

 

Cleveland State noted northeast Ohio has accepted hundreds of Afghan refugees since last year. The region could also see refugees from Ukraine. Gov. Mike DeWine is convening a summit of local organizations Thursday to prepare Ohio groups to welcome refugees from the war in Ukraine. 

The United Nations estimates that nearly 3 million people have fled Ukraine since fighting began last month. 

If any of those refugees make it to northeast Ohio, Cleveland State leaders are hoping to welcome them to the area. 

“Some members of my family are involved with the military and the exit from Afghanistan, and they saw firsthand how devastating it all was,” said Cleveland State Student Government Association President Martin Barnard. “People ripped away from their homes, sometimes having to leave packed bags behind, just get on a plane and go. Hopefully we can make these people feel welcome and supported for the things that they need to survive.”

Related Stories