UW launches food drive to support Second Harvest Foodbank

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Visitor and Information Programs (VIP) will be joining Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin in an effort to raise non-perishable food items for families in need.

Food items during the drive may be dropped off at the Red Gym, 716 Langdon Street, or the Welcome Center, 21 N. Park Street, beginning this week through Dec. 10, 2008.

Your contributions make a direct impact in Wisconsin. Each year, 110,000 people at risk of hunger in 16 southern Wisconsin counties are served by Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. Of those at risk, 10,000 are children living in Dane County. For every 1.25 pounds of food received, Second Harvest will produce one meal.

The drive is already off to a strong start, with the UW Marching Band contributing 350 pounds of non-perishable food items during the official kickoff event.

“As part of the Wisconsin Idea, it is our goal to give back to the Madison community during this holiday season,” says Nick Gonzales, UW–Madison student and VIP marketing specialist. “We organized the food drive as an opportunity for all members of the campus to come together and help families in need. An event like a food drive really shows that the campus can make a difference.”

VIP, which consists of 75 students and six professional staff, has set a goal to contribute 300 pounds of food, with an overall campus goal of 800 pounds. On Dec. 5, VIP will be holding a Donation Day at the Red Gym. VIP encourages students, faculty, staff and members of the Madison community to donate any time throughout the day. Come join VIP for complimentary hot chocolate supplied by University Housing.