VIP launches food drive to support Second Harvest Foodbank

Visitor & Information Programs (VIP) will be joining Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin in an effort to raise nonperishable food items for families in need.

Food items during the drive may be dropped off at the Armory and Gymnasium (Red Gym), 716 Langdon St., or the Welcome Center, 21 N. Park St., from now through Monday, Dec. 7.

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.

“Last year as a team, we were able to collect and donate 872 pounds, which provided 698 meals to those struggling with hunger in the Madison community,” says Jake Tackett, UW–Madison student and VIP employee. “Our goal for this year is to top that total. We organize 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 and community care for each other and that we can all make a difference.”

On Dec. 7, VIP will be holding a “donation day” at the Red Gym, where free hot chocolate will be provided. VIP encourages students, faculty, staff and members of the Madison community to donate to its drive any time through Dec. 7.