The Mail Services Holiday Food Drive at UC Davis is back for its 19th year, offering numerous ways for the campus community to contribute before the November 22nd deadline. This annual initiative plays a crucial role in supporting the ASUCD Pantry, which provides essential food and supplies to students and staff in need. With a range of convenient donation options and a diverse array of requested items, the drive aims to make it easy for everyone to lend a helping hand and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity.
Nourishing the Community, One Donation at a Time
Simplicity in Giving: Donate Through Campus Mail
The easiest way to contribute is by leaving non-perishable food items with your outgoing campus mail. Mail Services will then ensure that these donations reach the ASUCD Pantry, making it a seamless process for donors. UC Davis Health employees can also participate, with their contributions going directly to the Pantry at UC Davis Health.
Discounts for Donations: AggieSurplus Shoppers Can Save
For those who frequent the AggieSurplus store, there's an added incentive to donate. During the in-person shopping hours this week, shoppers can bring donation items and receive a discount on their purchases. The exact discount amount varies depending on the number of items donated, providing a win-win scenario for both the donors and the Pantry.
Clearing Citations with Compassion: Transportation Services' Unique Offer
The final option caters to drivers who may not have initially planned to make a donation. From November 12th to 22nd, Transportation Services is allowing citations or invoices received on or before November 5th to be paid through donations of items to the Pantry. The number of items required to clear an eligible citation or invoice varies, depending on the type of citation or invoice, but this innovative approach encourages community members to support the cause while addressing their own transportation-related obligations.
Nourishing the Body, Uplifting the Spirit: The Pantry's Wish List
The ASUCD Pantry has provided a comprehensive list of suggested donation items, catering to a wide range of needs. These include canned meats, fish, and soups; canned ready-to-eat meals; canned vegetables and tomato products; healthy snacks; toiletries and hygiene products; cooking utensils; gluten-free foods; peanut butter and jelly in plastic containers; iron-rich cereal; 100% fruit juice; canned fruit in juice; enriched rice or pasta; and boxed macaroni and cheese. The Pantry also welcomes donations of baby formula, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of the community are not overlooked.
Empowering the Community: The Lasting Impact of Donations
The Mail Services Holiday Food Drive is more than just a collection of donations; it's a testament to the compassion and generosity of the UC Davis community. Each contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. By supporting the ASUCD Pantry, donors are not only providing nourishment but also uplifting the spirits of those in need, fostering a sense of community and belonging that extends far beyond the campus boundaries.As the November 22nd deadline approaches, the UC Davis community is encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving and participate in this vital initiative. Whether through the convenience of campus mail, the incentive of discounts at AggieSurplus, or the opportunity to clear citations with compassion, there are numerous ways to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry, and that the spirit of generosity and community support continues to thrive at UC Davis.
