A member of the St. Edward’s University faculty has started a grassroots campaign to collect winter clothing.

Josh Bertetta, a religious studies professor, started the campaign in order to provide adequate clothing to the Oglala Lakota tribe in South Dakota, where the temperature is around or below zero.

“Over 60 percent live without water, electricity, or insulation in their homes,” Bertetta said. “Each winter many elderly die of hypothermia, and the infant mortality rate is 300 percent the national average.”

Donations need to be new or gently used winter clothing. Beretta said that they will accept all types of clothing, but they are in particular need of heavy winter coats. Children’s clothes are needed as well. Those interested in donating clothing can drop off items in the collection box located in Mang House by Feb. 4.

Bertetta said that small monetary donations are needed to help with shipping costs and can be given to Medina Bills, whose office is in 100 Mang House.

For further information, contact Bertetta at [email protected].