By Nassr Awada
If you’re beating your head with a stick for getting that C on your Biology mid-term and still burning the midnight oil trying to finish that 20 page paper due this week, think of the bright side. Be thankful if your stomach is full. Be thankful if you have a place to sleep every night. Be thankful if you have a little money to buy presents for your family and friends. This season, many students on this campus won’t have enough nutritious food to eat, and money to see their families, let alone cash to buy presents.
Last year the Campus Food Bank fed over 800 people, 300 of whom were the children of students. But most students who use the Campus Food Bank don’t have dependents–they’re just regular students who are finding it tough to pay ever increasing amounts in tuition and eat at the same time. In fact, 30 per cent of students who use the Food Bank cite inadequate student loans as the reason they need help.
Next week, Student’s Union Volunteer Services is kicking off its annual Holiday Food Drive to raise money for the Campus Food Bank. Whether you’re a student, staff or faculty member, you can contribute to this worthwhile cause in the following ways…
The Silent Auction on Wednesday and Thursday in the North Courtyard (MSC) has always been a smashing success with awesome prizes to bid on, or stop by the Birthday Tree all week and purchase a gift for a child in need. There’s also the annual Multicultural Clubs Casino in the Blue Banana Lounge on Friday evening where you can win money and bid on some fabulous prizes. On Saturday night the Planet Smashers will be playing in the Ballroom, with all proceeds from ticket sales going to the Campus Food Bank.
There are also a number of activities for clubs or groups of any kind, such as the Treasure Hunt on Monday, and the Food Pyramids on Friday. If you’re interested in getting a group together to compete for the grand prize of a Pepsi fridge, call Volunteer Services to find out how.
Even if you don’t have time to participate in any of these events, be sure to give some of your change to the Great Donation Tables. Any amount you can give is greatly appreciated. (Don’t forget to wear your stickers so you don’t get hassled too often!). If you do want to make a donation to the Food Drive, you can stop by Volunteer Services.
One last thing–if you get a chance, commend those who are taking time out of their day to volunteer and collect for a worthy cause. A simple "you’re doing a great job, thanks!" is more than plenty. Happy holidays everyone!
Toodles!
Nassr Awada
Vice-president External.