Social Work Club Serves Unhoused Populations

The Social Work Club at Alvernia University's Philadelphia Community-Based Campus held their annual spring bagged lunch event where they served 20 bagged lunches to the unhoused population in Center City, Philadelphia.

"From my perspective, as a professor of social work, I believe that social work education is more than classroom experience," said Assistant Professor of Social Work, Dr. Paul Heffner. "We are a profession that is about a call to action. There are always so many folks in need, and if we can contribute a small bit of care to folks in need, that feels like a win for everyone."

Throughout the course of the semester, the club collects donations to include in the bags, as well as fills and distributes the lunches with the help of volunteers alongside Heffner and his mother, Maria Heffner.

"As a student determined in social work, this event means going out into the real world and engaging with the community to the best of your means," said Thanea Redroven. "Be the reason someone feels welcomed, seen, heard, valued, loved & supported."

The items collected for these bags included: winter hats and scarves, bottled water, granola bars, hand warmers, travel mugs, hot cocoa packets, tuna cracker packs, and resource information packets.

"Making outreach to the community is an action that all social workers are required to execute," said Social Work Club President, Michelle Johnson. Fulfilling the need and supporting as best you can. Providing service to the unhoused community is what we do at the Philadelphia Campus. We are a small organization making huge strides, uplifting the spirits of individuals, and showing compassion and care to each person we encounter. One kind gesture goes a long way."