PA Class of ’27 Taking Donations for Those Affected by Tornadoes

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Last weekend, 19 people were killed, another 10 were critically injured and hundreds were displaced when powerful thunderstorms — including at least two confirmed tornadoes — ravaged the towns and surrounding counties near Somerset and London, Ky.

Now, the College of Health Sciences is reaching out to help.

Tuesday, officials from the Physician Assistant Studies program announced a donation drive, where students from the PA Class of 2027 will be collecting items to donate to those affected by the storms.

Leslie Richie, president of the class, said she is keeping in constant contact with the Laurel County Health Department to keep track of all updates.

“Our inspiration for this donation drive came from our mission as aspiring physician assistants and native Kentuckians,” said Richie, who is a native of Richmond. “Our mission with UKPA is to become skilled, compassionate physician assistants to serve those in underserved and rural areas. As native Kentuckians, we seek opportunities to help our neighbors and communities whenever possible.”

Those interested can donate items to the UKPA office in Charles T. Wethington Building, CTW 205, until noon on May 30.

Richie said the drive is specifically asking for:

Clorox wipes
General cleaning supplies
First aid kits
Medical supplies
Tampons and pads
Shaving cream and razors
Body wash
Shampoo
Gloves
Toilet paper
Paper towels
Garbage bags

“This donation drive is one way we hope to help our fellow Kentuckians in need,” Richie said.