Sep. 1, 2011

Main Street Portsmouth welcomed international students at Shawnee State University by donating supplies to the Center for International Programs and Activities (CIPA).

When the students arrive, they have clothing but none of the necessities to set up their apartments, like sheets, towels, pillows, blankets and kitchen supplies.

The international students live in campus apartments that provide the beds and living room furniture, but none of the necessities for housekeeping. CIPA has a building to keep the donated items in from year to year, but some things need to be replenished each year. Towels and kitchen cloths were some of the needed supplies and Main Street Portsmouth donated them to help the students. This year, the new international students represent 17 countries.

The Board of Main Street Portsmouth voted to support the program as one of several efforts that the organization is leading to help strengthen ties between Shawnee State University students and the community.

The group is also involved in a "Welcome Bears" event that provides incentives for students to shop downtown and future planned events targeting both students and community members.