This Program at MWCC Aids Veterans with Low Incomes
By Jayden Hooper | Observer Contributor
Photo by Sr. Airman Michael Bueno, courtesy of MWCC
The Veteran Textbook Donation Program supports veterans and veteran dependent students by allowing them to rent textbooks given to the program from other students.
Robert Mayer has overseen the donation program since 2014. When asked about the importance of the program, Mayer said, “In one way or another our veteran students have made an enormous commitment to serving our country. Some through the actual combat and some the readiness to be deployed to combat. This kind of commitment deserves our gratitude.”
Sergeant Andrew Brunell, who is in charge of signing out the textbooks, said that approximately 40 veterans this semester have rented out textbooks required for their courses.
Brunell said, “My wife and I… the first semester that we came here I was using my VA benefits. I got a little bit of a book stipend, but we went to the bookstore and purchased all of our books, brand new, and they cost $2,000.”
When asked why students should donate their textbooks, Brunell stated that “some students sell their textbooks back to the bookstore for pennies on the dollar.” He went on to mention how donating textbooks allow students to feel good about where their textbooks are going.
Brunell mentioned how many veterans are only going to school and not working, but are getting paid by the VA so they’re living on the lower side of income. The program works as a “safety net” for those who cannot afford their textbooks or may need to rent one temporarily if their books haven’t been delivered in time for their classes.
Any students who are interested in donating their textbooks to veteran or veteran dependent students can see Robert Mayer or Andrew Brunell in Veteran Services.
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