When Omar Abushaikha returned to Seneca Residence this fall, there was a package awaiting him from Umbra. 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.
“These were useful things I didn’t think about buying, but as soon as I got them, I realized I needed them a long time ago,” Mr. Abushaikha said. “It was very helpful.”
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 Seneca 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.
“Umbra has had a long-standing relationship with Seneca, and we have employed or currently employ many Seneca graduates,” said Yael Grimman, Chief Marketing Officer, Umbra. “We 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.”
Seneca received the donation in April but had to wait until the spring lockdown lifted in Ontario before beginning to distribute them.
“It was really nice to give the students something to brighten their day after the lockdown,” said Bailey Howell, Residence Life Manager, Seneca Residence. “It was a wonderful pick-me-up during a very challenging time.”
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.
“We are thankful to Umbra for their generosity in supporting the Seneca community,” said Lindsay James, Senior Development Officer, Seneca Advancement & Alumni. “It’s been a challenging time and Seneca’s students have reported significant financial challenges through the pandemic. This gift from Umbra not only helped Seneca welcome students back to residence, but it helped ease some financial burden by making sure students have common, but necessary, household items.”