PPSA collects business attire for charities

In the spirit of this season of giving, the Penn Professional Staff Assembly (PPSA) is holding a clothing drive to collect business attire to donate to two Philadelphia organizations that help men and women become economically independent.

New or gently used men’s business suits, shirts, and toiletries are being collected through Friday, Dec. 20, for the Bethesda Project, which assists the homeless in a variety of ways, including finding housing, employment, and dealing with mental health or addiction issues.

Women’s skirt or pants suits are needed for Dress for Success, a nonprofit organization that provides career development and support services to women transitioning into the workforce. The organization is also accepting shirts, dress shoes, and accessories such as jewelry, handbags, and briefcases.

The PPSA serves monthly paid staff by holding events and activities throughout the year to provide a supportive network for University employees. For the organization’s December event, Emma Grigore, PPSA chair-elect and a human resources coordinator at the Wharton School, says the organization looked for a way to support organizations that help both men and women, and aid the Philadelphia community.

“It’s a mutual benefit,” Grigore says of the clothing drive. “[Penn employees] can clear some space in their closet and feel good about what they’re doing.”

Collection boxes are available at 10 locations across campus, including the Houston Hall information desk, Civic House, the LGBT Center, the Franklin Building, and Steinberg-Dietrich Hall. For a complete list of locations, visit the PPSA website.

Individuals who do not have clothing to donate can assist in other ways. Volunteers can drop in and help out at a clothes-sorting party on Friday, Dec. 20, from noon to 1 p.m. at Civic House, 3914 Locust Walk. The PPSA is also looking for volunteers to help deliver the clothing to both organizations.

PPSA