Slippery Rock University students Sharlie Dixon,18, left, and C.J. Zaphyr, 22, collect items for care packages for homless people Saturday, part of a joint effort between the school's SUCEED program and the Homeless Bag Project. Seb Foltz/Butler Eagle 04/09/22

Stepfanie Armstrong got a little help Saturday in her effort to help homeless National Guard members.

Armstrong teamed up with with the Butler Slippery Rock University Center for Community Engagement, Empowerment and Development (SUCCEED) for a collection drive for what she calls the Homeless Bag Project.

The drive took place from 2 to 5 p.m. at the SUCCEED site at 150 N. Main St., where Armstrong and SRU student volunteers collected necessities including clothing, light food items and cases of water.

Armstrong said she started the Homeless Bag Project seven years ago out of the back of her car.

“I saw a need for basic items that homeless people were going without. I’d pile up the car and hit the streets. I partnered with Butler SUCCEED for the first donation day,” said Armstrong.

A portion of this story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. To read the full story and support our local, independent newsroom, please subscribe at butlereagle.com.