Bulldogs Get In Holiday Spirit With Toys For Tots and Adopt A Family

Bryant Student-Athletes Get In Holiday Spirit In December

SMITHFIELD, RI - Members Bryant University's athletics teams took time from their busy schedules leading up to final exams to help support those less fortunate during the holiday season. 

On Dec. 18, Bryant student-athletes held a very successful Toys For Tots campaign during the Bulldog women's basketball game and followed with a special delivery to needy families in area through the Adopt-A-Family program run through the Nickerson Community Center in Providence.

"This can be a hard time of year for many families and the student-athletes just wanted to give back a little and hopefully bring a little holiday cheer to those in need," said senior Caleb Paul '06, a member of Bryant's cross country and track teams.  "We had a good showing from teams during last year's holiday season, but this year drew an even better response from the student-athletes and campus community."

Organized by Bryant University's Student Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.), Bryant teams adopted 14 local families through the Nickerson Community Center in Providence, up from last year's total of 11 families. 

The teams accepted donated clothes, food, toys and various other items suggested by the community center, throughout the month of November and December.  The items nearly filled the entire Bulldog Room in the Chace Athletic Center right up to the final day of collection on Dec. 21.

"The turnout was unbelievable, "added Paul.  Everyone really dug deep this year to help those in need," added Paul.  "Every time I walked by the room, there were more and more items, ranging from toys to coats and blankets.  It was great to see."

During last Sunday's Toys For Tots Drive, close to 200 fans brought various gifts in exchange for a free ticket and slice of pizza to the women's basketball game.  The toys were immediately turned over to the U.S. Marine Corps which organizes the year Toys For Tots drive.