NDSU’s latest “Donate, Don’t Dispose” effort was highly successful. The program, sponsored by Residence Life and the Residence Hall Association, asks students to donate gently-used clothing, other unwanted belongings and food as they move out of the residence halls at the end of the academic year.

From May 6-15, students could drop off items at three trucks at various locations on campus.The project collected 3,980 pounds of items for the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch and 929 pounds of non-perishable food for the Emergency Food Bank. This year’s goal was 4,500 pounds, according to Jen Kacere, Residence Life assistant director for leadership development.

“We are extremely grateful for everyone who donated items or food for the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch or the Emergency Food Bank,” Kacere said. “We were not only able to give back to the community, but keep thousands of pounds out of the landfill. Thank you to everyone who participated, and we look forward to continuing this program in the future.”

In 2014-15, students contributed 1,940 pounds of items to the New Life Center through the Donate, Don’t Dispose program. Last year, a total of 4,240 pounds went to the center.

Kacere said special appreciation goes to the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch for accepting the items, the Emergency Food Bank for picking up the food, Penske Truck Rental, the Fargo Landfill for weighing the trucks and NDSU Parking Services for helping with locations.

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