In December of 2024 the Red Cross club on campus held a Blanket Drive, where students made tie-blankets to donate to the McHenry House, a shelter in Tracy that provides support for families in need of housing and helps them become self-sufficient.  

“Since Tracy has a homeless shelter,” says President Tanusha Kolli. “I reached out to McHenry House to ask if they needed blankets for the children during the winter, as it gets quite cold.” 

 When asked where the idea to make blankets came from, she answered, “We saw many other Red Cross clubs doing similar initiatives to blanket making in their communities. Being a first-time club on campus, we decided to stick with something that we knew would be of use to our community as well. I wouldn’t necessarily say there was a high demand, but McHenry House is always in need of items that could support the [people] they house.”  

Singh continues, “I would say this event was successful because we were able to donate around 15 blankets and worked over the span of two months to make this possible. [We taught] many members how to make a tie knot blanket for the first time.”  

When discussing the success of the event, Kolli comments, “The staff at McHenry House were very appreciative of the donation. Additionally, JROTC contributed by donating feminine care items. We definitely hope to organize a similar drive next year.” The McHenry house expressed their gratitude in a letter to the club that was reposted on the Red Cross Club’s Instagram (@mfwhsredcross). 

“Through community service, students are able to actively contribute to giving back to the community on behalf of our club.” Singh says. “By holding meetings during lunch, we make it accessible for everyone, even those with limited time. As a result, students not only gain valuable skills, but they also develop a deeper awareness of local organizations and how small actions, like donating blankets, can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others.”