Killian Hicks’ normal week used to consist of attending classes, hanging out with friends and working at a local sports shop. Over the last few weeks, junior history major Hicks has been busy handing out empty jars to businesses around Monroe and West Monroe to support Desiard Street Shelter as part of his #SpareSomeChange initiative.

Q: Why did you start the initiative?

A: I read a local news article about the shelter closing. I volunteer at the shelter, so I know other workers and have had friends who have lived at the shelter before. I do the breakfast serving from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. before my first class at 11 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

My initiative was the fact that people have been saying they have been giving, yet the shelter still has money issues. I wanted to take some action and start something on my own that I could guarantee went to the shelter and help out.

Q: How does “#Spare Some Change” work?

A: #SpareSomeChange is a campaign where I take mason jars to 23 different businesses around town to collect extra cash that is given to the shelter.

In the first three days, just at my business alone, I raised $161. I haven’t been by to collect from the other 22 businesses, but I have heard good reports. The public’s response has been absolutely wonderful. I have had 6,600 views on my first video and hundreds of responses for donations and questions about volunteering. I have to deliver more jars this week.

Q: No new initiative is always welcomed with open arms. Have you faced any backlash?

A: I sent out the offer to help to local churches in my initial video, and none have responded.

I have received negative comments on my first post challenging mega churches in the area. I called them out on the size of their buildings that they keep building while the homeless shelter crumbles.

The  people at these places obviously didn’t like being  called out. Some said I’m the one who doesn’t really give or do anything. I do not respond to anything negative. This campaign is completely positive.  Any negativity or arguing or fight is not welcome in the #SpareSomeChange campaign.

Q: How to you plan to use the funds, and what else can people do to help the shelter?

A: 100 percent of the funds go to the shelter, and they use it for repairs, food, the overnight program and helping people get their documents. You can donate directly to the shelter on its Facebook page or website or volunteer at the shelter. You have to contact and meet with the shelter before you can volunteer. Food distribution and office work is the main volunteer work. They also accept clothing and goods donation.

Q: Has being involved in this project affected your academic or social life in any way?

A: The collection of the fund has been the difficult part. Weekly, I have to try to get to each jar and collect. I just have a small amount of time. I only will have people I truly trust help me as collectors, because I don’t want anyone to be able to accuse me of stealing donations. My academics are fine, and honestly, I’ve been able to meet so many new people and make connections with wonderful people who really want to change the way things are.

You can help Hicks’ initiative by going to his Facebook page and requesting a mason jar.