This past fall, Dr. Emily Hawkins and her second-year physical therapy students in PT 880: Psychosocial Aspects of Patient Care brought Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s spirit of innovation and resilience to life with help from the Service Learning Mini-Grant Program.
With $950 in funding, they created 100 wound care kits filled with essential medical supplies—bandages, dressings, saline, antibiotic ointment, and more—for neighbors experiencing homelessness. These kits were donated to the Â鶹´«Ã½ Community Care Clinic at the Virginia Beach Housing Resource Center, ensuring vital support for a vulnerable population.
Every student also participated in hands-on service at the Housing Resource Center or PiN Ministry in Virginia Beach. These experiences deepened their understanding of the barriers to healthcare faced by those without stable housing, fostering empathy and real-world skills.
Reflecting on the initiative, Dr. Hawkins shared, "It was a highlight of my semester and year."
By combining academics with action, Monarchs are not just learning—they’re leading.