Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity goes homeless for a good cause

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity goes homeless for a good cause

Alcorn State University’s Delta Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. made their stay on the campus green for charity.

The fraternity participated in their annual “DK goes Homeless” initiative on the campus plaza this week in an effort to collect food, clothing and money for the less fortunate. The fraternity gave up sleeping in the comfort of their dorm rooms for a night to get a glimpse of what homeless people go through on a daily basis. The students donated more than $300 to the cause, which will be donated to the Salvation Army and The American Red Cross in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The clothing, toiletries, and food will be donated to a Vicksburg homeless shelter.

Reginald Higgins, president of both the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and senior class, said that despite sleeping in conditions unfamiliar to them, he and his fraternity brothers thought highly of the experience.

“The experience was great,” said Reginald. “We received positive feedback from faculty, staff and the student body. By us dressing like homeless people and sleeping outside, we experienced what it’s like to walk in their shoes for 24 hours. It was very hard. It was a very cold night and we didn’t have enough clothes and covers to keep us warm. It was so hard to sleep.”

Higgins was also involved in the senior class’ red kettle campaign with The Salvation Army Monday, Nov. 16. He was inspired by the conditions of his hometown to participate in the charitable event.

“Coming from a small town in the Mississippi Delta where there is a lot of poverty inspired me to donate to The Salvation Army. I know that donating will put a smile on some families’ faces. Sometimes the small things you do for the less fortunate leave a positive impact on their lives. We are placed here for a reason and that is to serve others. We enjoy and love this type of work.”