SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State University continues to provide support and resources for its neighbors to the west as part of its Bear Hugs for Joplin program. On Wednesday (June 1), a group of around 20 MSU athletics staff members and coaches spent several hours volunteering at Ozarks Food Harvest to assist with food and supply convoys headed straight to Joplin.

On Thursday (June 2), a group of 55 Missouri State faculty, staff and student volunteers will head to Joplin to provide hands-on assistance. Volunteers will park in Lot 44 (Elm Street near Sunvilla) and be ready to board the bus at 7:30 a.m. (return by 5:30 p.m.).  Those interested in volunteering for the Thursday trip may call (417) 836-4386 to sign up on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited to the first 55 volunteers to sign up. Lunch will be provided, but volunteers should bring an additional bottle of water for themselves. 

Those wishing to provide support by purchasing the "Bear Hugs for Joplin" t-shirt ($11.99) can go to the Missouri State Bookstore or CLICK HERE to order on-line. All proceeds go directly to Joplin relief efforts.