BUCKHANNON – Folks in Upshur County are quick to respond with help when there is a need, and it is our hope this year to find people to share some holiday joy with West Virginia Wesleyan College students who for whatever reason did not get to go home for the semester break.

My Buckhannon spoke with Alisa Lively, Dean of Students and Director of Campus Life at WVWC, and asked what could be done to help make these students feel more at home during the holiday season break.

Lively said the best way people can assist is to host students for a meal.

“In the next few weeks, because most students do not return to campus until Jan. 8, 2023, there are almost four full weeks these students will be here with very few folks around,” Lively said. “They would welcome sharing meals with others.”

“If people do not feel comfortable with bringing students into their homes, they could purchase a gift card at a local restaurant or from Walmart, which would allow students to buy supplies that they could cook in their rooms or in the small kitchens we have on campus,” Lively added. “Or they could reach out to one or two students, find out what they like, and bring them a meal to their residence hall.”

Another great idea Lively suggested is offering to take students to special events, such as a Christmas meal at a local church or a holiday party at an Upshur County club or organization.

Lively said anyone who would be willing to help is welcome to call her at 304-439-5214.

“In the past, everyone has been so generous in helping out, but in recent years, the Covid pandemic put a damper on this,” Lively said. “We appreciate everyone stepping up to help.”