UMass Dartmouth nursing students spark change

As part of their UMass Dartmouth nursing program service-learning project, Paige Bourgault, Maya Brown, Jasmine Borges, and Edward Barcellos partnered with GiftsToGive to make a meaningful difference. 

At GiftsToGive, philanthropy is grounded in compassion and community. Partnering with over 99 distribution partners, GiftsToGive addresses child poverty, promotes early literacy development, and inspires the spirit of giving. 

GiftsToGive is always seeking opportunities to involve community groups in our mission to provide essential care packages to children and families in need. From local families and student groups to church communities and corporate teams, everyone has a meaningful role to play. 

Borges, a junior nursing student, explains, “I wanted to work on a project that had an impact on children’s daily lives. Access to hygiene products is something most of us take for granted, but I realized that many families in our community struggle to afford these basic necessities. That motivated me to create a project that directly addresses that need.” 

The nursing students’ efforts to provide essential hygiene and personal care products aligned with the core purpose of GiftsToGive, which is to support children and families who are unable to access such necessities. 

To collect these items, the students developed a thoughtful and strategic approach targeting high-traffic areas on campus and promoting their mission through social media, emails, and personal outreach. 

The students collected a variety of essential hygiene items including soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, socks, and underwear. 

“We followed a process to ensure the products were safe for use as they were given to children. We focused on specific items that are in high demand, checked expiration dates, and sorted them — making sure they were either new in sealed boxes or in good condition before delivering them to GiftsToGive. This ensures that the donations are safe, helpful, and ready for distribution,” Borges explained. 

It is an important part of GiftsToGives’ mission to incorporate younger groups — like these nursing students. 

Long-time volunteer manager Martha Kay, who set up a joint project, shared that she would “like to see GiftsToGive infused with younger people. There’s so much that we can accomplish together, but getting people interested is what matters. Working with UMass Dartmouth students — or any youth — is important.” 

Junior nursing student Barcellos valued the opportunity to be involved with GiftsToGive. “The organization has been extraordinary in giving us a glimpse behind the curtain of the assistance that is being offered to families in need. So, I would strongly recommend them to anyone who wants to get closer to their community.” 

“These young people collectively are a bright and shining light, focused on what is best about us as people. We are proud to know them,” said Jim Stevens, CEO of GiftsToGive. 

With our shelves steadily emptying each season, your support — whether you donate or volunteer — can make a positive impact. 

Most needed gift items: 

• Hygiene kits: toothpaste, soap, deodorant, and shampoo.

• Children’s winter gear: long-sleeved shirts, pants, coats, hats, mittens, boots, scarves, and jackets. 

• Program-specific items: art supplies, toys, books, and games. 

To donate or volunteer at GiftsToGive, visit giftstogive.org or call 508-717-8715 to learn more. 

Marissa Sebastiao is a communications and community outreach intern at GiftsToGive.