Montana Tech nursing students launch clothing drive to support Butte’s vulnerable populations
Two Montana Technological University nursing seniors are working to make a lasting difference in their community as the weather turns harsh. Seniors Siena Thompson, of Butte, and Jadyn Vermillion, of Myrtle Creek, Oregon, are leading a winter clothing and hygiene drive to benefit the Butte Rescue Mission.
The Sherry Lesar School of Nursing requires that students organize a community outreach project to benefit underserved populations. Vermillion and Thompson also wanted to create something that would have a sustained impact.
“We wanted to do something that would last,” Thompson said. “A winter jacket isn’t like a meal—it’s something that’s going to help someone for months. With the winter months coming, we knew warm clothing would benefit people the most.”
Donations of winter coats, hats, gloves, socks, boots, men’s clothing, and hygiene products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, and lotion are being accepted through October 31. The donation box is located inside the Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) Building, just inside the front doors on the left.
Vermillion said their nursing training has given them a close look at the challenges many people in Butte face, inspiring them to act.
“Being in the nursing program, we’ve seen the side of vulnerable populations that a lot of people don’t see,” she said. “We wanted to reach those people that others might not think about.”
The students learned that the Butte Rescue Mission often struggles to keep men’s clothing in stock, so they’re especially encouraging donations in that category. Blankets and financial donations are also welcome.
“If someone wants to give money or drop off blankets, that’s wonderful too,” Thompson said. “Anything that helps someone stay warm makes a difference.”
Both Thompson and Vermillion share a strong sense of service rooted in their paths to nursing. Thompson is passionate about mental health and psychiatric care, motivated by a desire to serve vulnerable individuals in her hometown. Vermillion’s calling is also very personal—she was a NICU baby and hopes to work in neonatal intensive care after graduation.
“My mom always told me stories of how the nurses cared for me,” Vermillion said. “I want to give back to families going through what my family once went through.”
As they balance clinicals, coursework, and community service, both students hope the drive inspires others to think differently about giving.
“A lot of people automatically take their extra clothes to Goodwill,” Vermillion said. “If you’re just donating to donate, why not drop them off at the Butte Rescue Mission? They’ll go straight to people who need them.”
The clothing drive runs through October 31, and all donations will be delivered to the Butte Rescue Mission to help community members stay warm this winter.