Student collects, donates bras for those is need

Junior Farihah Hossain created an organization that offers support to women in more ways than one.

EmBRAce is a program that collects gently used bras to donate to women in need, primarily through Middle Way House.

“I hadn’t thought about it, but bras are the most needed item of clothing for any woman,” Hossain said. “It is also the most under-donated item of clothing
as well.”

Hossain was inspired to create emBRAce when she saw an article about a similar organization in Chicago called Support 1000.

“I wanted to do something like that here,” she said. “Monroe County is one of the poorest counties per capita in Indiana, and because we are in that county, I wanted to help.”

This past fall, Hossain began collecting bras. One semester and about 130 bras later, emBRAce is continuing to grow.

The biggest challenge is informing people of emBRAce’s goals, Hossain said.
“Some people do laugh about it at first, but once they learn more, they are receptive,” she said. “It’s difficult to find people willing to get involved because everyone has different time schedules.”

Regardless of the struggles, Hossain continues to spread the word with fliers and by promoting her organization in classes. She also visited sororities, including Alpha Chi Omega, where she received bra donations.

Sophomore Anjelica Violi got involved with emBRAce because it was different from other organizations, she said.

“When you think about what people need, bras don’t come to mind,” Violi said. “I believe donating a bra can make a big difference. Every woman needs one.”

For high school girls, receiving a bra that’s not held up with safety pins can be a boost of confidence, Hossain said.

When Hossain receives a donated bra, she ensures there are no rips or stains in order to maintain the integrity and functionality of the bras.

She then washes and sorts them by size for donation.

“We generally need larger-size bras,” Hossain said. “These are the people who need the bras the most.”

Hossain’s passion for the organization is very clear, said Cheryl Hughes, the emBRAce faculty adviser and visiting lecturer for the School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

“She is an amazing student who brought a great idea to a community who needs it,” Hughes said. “I love that a student started this type of organization.”

To ensure the longevity of emBRAce, Hossain said she hopes to increase her membership by holding callout meetings.

“I want to set things up so that even after I leave, emBRAce will continue,” Hossain said. “I don’t want it to stop after two years.”