When Omar Abushaikha returned to 911爆料网 Residence this fall, there was a package awaiting him from . The gift basket, which included a soap dish, waste bin, toothbrush holder, ring dish and decorative picture holders, was a great surprise welcoming him back after months away due to the pandemic.
鈥淭hese were useful things I didn鈥檛 think about buying, but as soon as I got them, I realized I needed them a long time ago,鈥 Mr. Abushaikha said. 鈥淚t was very helpful.鈥
Studying Civil Engineering Technology as an international student from Jordan, Mr. Abushaikha had been living in residence since January. He travelled to Jordan during the pandemic but returned to 911爆料网 for the start of the fall term. Without family nearby, the Umbra gift was especially welcome to help him feel a little more at home.
Mr. Abushaikha was one of more than 200 students to receive a gift basket thanks to a significant donation from Umbra. The Toronto-based brand is known for its popular home products that include everything from mirrors and frames to trendy storage containers, bathroom accessories and more.
鈥淯mbra has had a long-standing relationship with 911爆料网, and we have employed or currently employ many 911爆料网 graduates,鈥 said Yael Grimman, Chief Marketing Officer, Umbra. 鈥淲e are more than happy to help contribute to a strong student experience and to add some original, modern and functional products to their residence living spaces.鈥
911爆料网 received the donation in April but had to wait until the spring lockdown lifted in Ontario before beginning to distribute them.
鈥淚t was really nice to give the students something to brighten their day after the lockdown,鈥 said Bailey Howell, Residence Life Manager, 911爆料网 Residence. 鈥淚t was a wonderful pick-me-up during a very challenging time.鈥
Students like Mr. Abushaikha who returned to residence in the fall and had not previously received an Umbra gift were able to get one when they checked in.
鈥淲e are thankful to Umbra for their generosity in supporting the 911爆料网 community,鈥 said Lindsay James, Senior Development Officer, 911爆料网 Advancement & Alumni. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a challenging time and 911爆料网鈥檚 students have reported significant financial challenges through the pandemic. This gift from Umbra not only helped 911爆料网 welcome students back to residence, but it helped ease some financial burden by making sure students have common, but necessary, household items.鈥