NEW ALBANY, IN (Jan. 2, 2013) – During the holiday season, everyone could use a little help – even Santa.  Mr. Claus could rest easily this past year, knowing that IU Southeast’s Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) Society and Viviant helped provide gifts to a few families this Christmas.

Every year since 1972, around mid-November, Kappa Delta Pi accepts applications from IU Southeast students who are in need during the holiday season.

“I have seen on an application that a student has to choose from paying bills or buying food. This is a harsh reality that some of our students face,” said Kevin Sue Bailey, professor of education at IU Southeast and member of Kappa Delta Pi.

The applications show the needs and wishes of the students and their families. Then the wish lists are anonymously posted for IU Southeast faculty, staff, and students.

In 2012, two families applied, each with one child a piece. Amy Palmer, a student at IU Southeast and also member of Kappa Delta Pi, saw their wish lists and brought them to the attention of her husband, Wesley Palmer, a regional manager at Vivint. 

Employees at the home security company collect money for children in need throughout the community. Whatever the employees raise, Vivint matches.

Palmer and his company supported the two families at IU Southeast – and nine others throughout Kentuckiana – by collecting the wish lists and going on a shopping spree for the children.

“I am just so proud to be a part of something so great. It wonderful to take part in putting presents under the tree for these children,” Palmer said.

Kappa Delta Pi also helps students in need by supplying them with gift cards to Kohl’s to buy professional clothing to use for their degree. The group also hosts an annual literacy drive in the spring to give books to children in need.