The University will hold a campuswide food drive from Dec. 1-14 to support the Food Assistance & Well-Being Program. The effort is organized by Sarah Miller, administrative assistant in Student Affairs, and Justin Peterson, executive director of Campus Recreation.
The Food Assistance & Well-Being Program provides free food and essential items to students experiencing financial strain. Its pantries at the ARC and CRCE offer fresh produce, proteins, dairy, grains, canned goods and hygiene products.
National data from the American College Health Association shows food insecurity remains a significant challenge for college students. Up to half of students have reported experiencing some level of food insecurity, and more than a quarter have said they ate less than they needed because they couldn’t afford food.
Research from 2021 suggests that approximately 2,000 University students experience some form of food insecurity annually, according to Alana Harris, professor in AHS.
Unopened, unexpired food items and personal care products can be donated at more than a dozen drop-off sites across campus. Locations include ARC, CRCE, Illini Union, Illini Union Bookstore, Lincoln Hall, the University of Illinois Ice Arena, Swanlund Administration Building, McKinley Health Center, Spurlock Museum and several academic buildings.
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Financial gifts can be made through Illinois Giving, where a $20 donation is estimated to provide roughly 20 servings of food. Donors may also purchase needed pantry items directly through the program’s Amazon wishlist.
The Ice Arena will host a Sweater Weather Public Skate weekend from Dec. 12-14. Visitors who bring at least two food items will receive a free skate rental during the scheduled public sessions.
More information about drop-off locations, donation options and pantry services is available on the Illinois Campus Food Drive website.
