UNA-NYC Clothing Drive: Delivering Winter Warmth to Vulnerable NYC Communities

Written By Lalash Segooa

UNA-NYC Summer Scholars Ana Barragán, Lalash Segooa and Genevieve Connell

In a heartwarming display of solidarity, members of UNA's New York chapter joined with some of the UNA-NYC Summer Scholars - Genevieve Connell, Ana Barragán and Mihuvho Mafuna - from Fordham University's International Political Economy and Development (IPED) master's program, and united their efforts for this year's annual clothing drive.

This initiative brought in much needed clothing essentials to help clothe and warm the men and women of New York City. Organized by Summer Scholars Lalash Segooa (2023) and Khutso Segooa (2022), the drive exemplified the power of community in action.

The drive spanned two locations; Fordham University's Rose Hill campus, and contributions from UNA- NYC members who made individual deliveries directly to the Bowery Mission at 227 Bowery Street in Lower Manhattan between November 10 and December 15, 2024. Donors were encouraged to contribute new socks, new underwear, clean shoes, and warm coats. The Scholars worked tirelessly to collect, sort, and package these items, ensuring that each piece would reach someone in need.

"The event offered our members an opportunity to reflect more deeply on understanding ourselves as part of a community and the roles we each play within the spaces we occupy in society," shared Lalash Segooa.

This is more than just a clothing drive; it's a social impact mission aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals - specifically SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). In New York City alone, about 1.4 million New Yorkers live below the poverty line, as many face challenges affording essentials like clothing. Additionally, over 70,000 people are homeless - including more than 20,000 children. With the City providing some form of shelter and/or services to nearly 120,000 individuals each night, this initiative aims to provide vital clothing to help these vulnerable individuals stay warm. All donations will be distributed through the Bowery Mission, ensuring each item reaches those most in need.

The success of this clothing drive was made possible thanks to the dedication of UNA-NYC members, its Summer Scholars, and the Fordham community. As we reflect on the event's impact, it stands as a reminder of the difference we can make when we come together to support our community.

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For more information on upcoming drives, please stay tuned to the UNA-NYC website.

UNA-NYC Summer Scholars Khutso Segooa and Lalash Segooa