Written by Chris Herman
Willimantic, Conn. - Eastern Connecticut State University's Habitat for Humanity campus chapter held its annual "Shack-a-Thon" fundraiser over a 24-hour period from Oct. 26-27 in front of Webb Hall. The fundraiser was held to increase awareness of substandard housing in the Willimantic community.
Participating Eastern students were asked to live in cardboard box structures for the full 24 hours. Students were able to attend classes and extracurricular activities, but they had to return to the cardboard shelter during the fundraising period. Students were encouraged to give up electronic devices including cell phones, laptops and iPods to fully appreciate someone living in a substandard home. Habitat for Humanity members collected donations during the event and will continue to accept donations throughout the semester to raise money for their Alternative Spring Break trip in March 2012, when they build a house in South Carolina.
Students participating in the fundraiser included Jamie O'Connor, Avery Schena, Emily Cameron, Heather Lepper, Jackie Fedor, Chris Connors, Rebecca Ingoglia, Dave Coffey, Christina Reynolds, Katie Lynne Twarog, Amy Dias, Jackie Giuntini, Melissa Timbrell, Scott Nolan, Despina M, Corey Pelletier and Austin Baldour.
