Sigma Alpha Mu Leads Fundraiser for Tuscaloosa SAFE Center

UA’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu is coordinating a supply drive and fundraiser to benefit the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center that provides health care, advocacy and counseling services for survivors of sexual assault.

According to Pedro Reyes, Sigma Alpha Mu’s philanthropy chair, the chapter saw a great opportunity to help the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center when searching for local organizations to support.

“We wanted to do something that would make a big impact on campus and the surrounding area,” said Reyes. “What started as a supply drive turned into adding a fundraiser and things kept growing and growing. Ultimately, it’s about us making sure we were doing our job to continue the conversation on sexual assault and how we can help fight it.”

Sigma Alpha Mu has partnered with every Greek organization on campus by providing each with a Sammy Safe Box that collects supplies and includes information on how to make a monetary donation. A Sammy Safe Box is also located in the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life in The University of Alabama Student Center.

“Items that are currently in critical need at the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center are new men’s and women’s clothing, hygiene products, individually-packaged snacks and drinks, and office supplies,” said Cole Parker, president of Sigma Alpha Mu. “Every Sammy Safe Box also includes the center’s PayPal and Venmo information if individuals prefer to make a monetary donation. When doing so, please be sure to include ‘Sammy Safe Box’ in the payment description.”

Parker says they’ve already seen a tremendous amount of support from those inside and outside of the Greek community, and they encourage all students, faculty and staff to support the cause.

“The Tuscaloosa SAFE Center is a critical resource in the community that provides invaluable services and care to survivors of sexual assault,” said Reyes. “Anything we can do for the center will enable them to better support survivors who are in desperate need of assistance. It is an organization that does a tremendous amount of good for the community, so it’s crucial that we, as part of the community, do our part to give back.”

Sigma Alpha Mu will continue to collect donations until Oct. 26. For those wanting to donate supplies, a list of needed items is below.