The current undergraduate student government president’s office has worked tirelessly to prioritize the needs of students, dedicated to maximizing our college experience on many different levels. With the initial intent to raise funds and bring awareness to homelessness in the Westwood and greater Los Angeles area, staff members stumbled upon the devastating discovery that homelessness did not just exist on Skid Row ““ it was infiltrating Bruin Walk as well.
Given the current decomposition of our economy, it’s easy to imagine that many are struggling. However, when we hear the narratives of our classmates who are storing their lives in the Wooden lockers, showering in friends’ dorms and literally spending the night in Powell, the reality of it all pulls fiercely at one’s heartstrings. More than sympathy, what these students need is support. Where good fortune has failed, we will not. It is time to take a stand for these individuals, whose numbers seem to increase with each day. The vicious cycle of poverty that deters many from attaining an education shall not perpetuate ““ not on our campus and certainly not on our watch.
BruINTENT was held at the Sunset Recreation Center from April 16 to April 17. The event aimed to bring students together in solidarity to sleep in a tent for one night so others wouldn’t have to. The night consisted of concerts, student performances, food and amazing art and speakers. All of this cost the equivalent of any average dinner: $6. Except it was worth more, because 100 percent of the proceeds went to the cause.Â
The evening’s funds supported a non-profit organization, Chrysalis, which helps the homeless get back into the workforce. In addition, the Undergraduate Students Association Council president’s office arranged for a portion of the money to go toward a grant accessible to UCLA students who find themselves without a home.Â
It is our goal that this assistance will also be available to AB 540 students caught in a similar situation.
The reality of homelessness hitting our peers is heartbreaking, yet together as Bruins we bear the responsibility of helping. About 300 students registered in one week, and many people donated regardless of attendance. During the program, two homeless UCLA students spoke about their personal situation and what they went through to survive. We also screened a documentary that revealed a day in the life of a homeless student at UCLA.Â
Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Janina Montero spoke about the meal voucher program ““ launched thanks to the collaborative work of her office, the USAC presidential staff, and the Community Programs Office ““ which allows homeless students to eat at ASUCLA. Attendees also made 100 sandwiches for those on Skid Row.
The donations are still flooding in, so the numbers have not been finalized. But we are humbled by the compassionate philanthropists who continue to give to this cause. We are currently auctioning off an autographed UCLA team basketball in addition to a football signed by coach Rick Neuheisel. The Alumni Association Board will also be asked to match donations.
After attending the event, the administration remains very interested in helping students who are homeless ““ given the enlightenment provided by the evening’s program. The Chancellor’s wife, Carol Block, was also in attendance and seemed to enjoy the event. All in all, attendees enjoyed the night and, despite the cold, were warmed by their intent as Bruins to unify behind this issue.
Many hearty thanks to everyone who came out to support this effort as well as those who donated to the cause. You have truly made a difference, and we hope to see you all again next year.
Hosseini is the current USAC president and Bawa is the chief of staff.