FGCU Athletics’ #FEEDFGCU campaign collected 687 pounds of food for the FGCU Campus Food Pantry in November.
Eagles fans had the opportunity to drop off canned goods at 10 home games for the men’s and women’s soccer and men’s and women’s basketball teams. The total far out-weighs the 476 pounds that was donated in November 2014 and tops the 2014-15 year total of 673.
“On behalf of our students experiencing food insecurity, we thank the Eagle fans for their donation,” said Jo Anna Bradshaw, wife of FGCU President Wilson G. Bradshaw and founder and lead volunteer of the Campus Food Pantry. “Fifty-one percent of the food we distributed during the 2014-15 academic year came through food drives like the one supported by our fans. Without these donations we would not be able to offer the variety of products that we do. We are very fortunate to have caring people share their resources with those in need.”
Fans who donated 10 or more canned items received an FGCU-branded lunch box. This was the second year that FGCU Athletics has held a canned food drive at home events to support the on-campus food pantry.
“We are honored to be associated with such a wonderful part of our university community and blessed to be supported by so many kind and generous Green and Blue faithful,” added FGCU Director of Athletics Ken Kavanagh. “In particular, we also hope the drive brings awareness of such an important cause that exists well beyond the holiday seasons.”
FGCU Athletics sponsors events throughout the year to benefit the the pantry, one of the department’s charities of choice. For more information, including how to make a contribution, visit the website and use #FEEDFGCU on Twitter to help raise awareness of hunger.
Another canned food drive will take place at home sports events in April. More information about that drive will be announced in the spring.