First Quality provides support for Penn College student-parents

The First Quality Group of companies, a leader in personal health care products and a longtime corporate partner of Pennsylvania College of Technology, has donated a number of sought-after items to the campus food pantry.

In coordination with the college’s Inclusion Task Force, First Quality contributed feminine hygiene products, diapers and wipes to The Cupboard’s inventory. Operated by Dining Services in the Bush Campus Center and supported solely by community donations, the pantry assists students who are struggling with food insecurities and hygiene needs.

“As any parent can attest, raising children is one of the most challenging – but rewarding – jobs someone can be blessed with. For student-parents, the challenges reach further due to balancing their education while financially supporting their children,” noted Mattie L. Pulizzi, human resources specialist: development and compliance, and a task force member.

“First Quality’s gracious donation of diapers, wipes and feminine hygiene products may help supplement some of the essentials for their children, while hopefully easing one worry for student-parents who are striving to create a better future for their families.”

Hannah M. Lilley, an accounting major from Williamsport and member of the Inclusion Task Force, had suggested The Cupboard as the best option for the donation. The facility is open to all students, she reasoned, and its availability can be conveniently and confidentially communicated through campuswide email.

“As a mom – and at one point a single mom – I understand the struggle of not always having enough, topped with the embarrassment of having to ask,” she said. “I’m happy to be a part of a school that goes above and beyond to ensure that their students are taken care of, not just with kind words, but with action.”

Following that recent discussion of student challenges in balancing parenthood and their college studies, Pulizzi and Margaret D. McCracken, human resources specialist: employment/Human Resources Information System, coordinated with Don Cole, production manager at Nutek Disposables Inc., in McElhattan, a First Quality Group company, to bring about the donation to The Cupboard.

“The relationship between First Quality and Penn College continues to be one of mutual respect and support,” Cole said. “We are very appreciative to Penn College for providing First Quality with the opportunity to play a small role in supporting students in their pursuit of higher education. It’s an honor to help out.”

The First Quality Group’s first entity, First Quality Products Inc., was established in Pennsylvania over 30 years ago; the group now has seven production campuses – six in the United States and one in Canada – that serve more than 40 countries, from hygiene and paper products to flexible packaging. The company has consistently hired Penn College graduates and supported manufacturing-related programming, including apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship initiatives through Workforce Development at the college.

“Penn College is the benefactor of many forms of support from our numerous corporate partners,” said Chris S. Macdonald, assistant director of corporate relations. “First Quality’s recognition of our student-parent needs and quick response with these donations will have immense impact. Their commitment to providing this relief is extremely appreciated.”

The products will be kept at the college’s Reach Road storage area and transferred accordingly to stock The Cupboard’s shelves. First Quality extended the possibility for additional donations as specific needs arise.

For more information about giving opportunities at Penn College, email the College Relations Office or call 866-GIVE-2-PC (866-448-3272).

For more about the college, a national leader in applied technology education and workforce development, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.