"Faisal AlSaad has been in the United States for less than a year, but he was profoundly moved when he saw news clips about the victims of the recent American disasters.

"In Saudi Arabia we have the same disaster," said the incoming Montana State University freshman from Saudi Arabia. "It is called masanada and everyone helps. I thought we should help here."

AlSaad, who is completing a course in English language through the American Cultural Exchange program at MSU and begins coursework in the fall, asked staff in MSU's Office of International Programs how he could help, initially thinking that the donations could go to victims of tornadoes in Joplin, Mo. Debra DeBode, a director in OIP, suggested he collect donations for victims of Montana floods, particularly people on the Crow Indian Reservation.

AlSaad set up a booth in the SUB and the first day collected $100.

"Bozeman has a big heart," AlSaad said."

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MSU Muslim students coordinate donation drive to aid Crow Reservation (MSU News 7/5)