By: Angela Mennecke
College of DuPage has joined the Illinois Community College Board’s second annual Feed the Need Food Drive, which runs from Tuesday, Oct. 15, through Sunday, Dec. 1.
The statewide initiative encourages community colleges to collect nonperishable food items for local food pantries and campus-based food banks through a friendly competition.
Last year’s inaugural effort demonstrated the power of collective action, with Illinois community colleges collecting more than 91,000 food items.
“Food insecurity remains one of the biggest barriers to student success,” said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham. “By joining forces across the state, community colleges can make a meaningful difference not only on campus but also in the communities they serve.”
All food donations collected at COD will benefit the College’s Fuel Pantry. Donations can be placed in collection bins throughout campus:
- BIC 1500
- SRC 1000
- SSC 1111
- SRC Door #7
- MAC 219
- PEC 121
- BIC 2A07
- HSC 1235
- SRC 1110
- TEC 1034
- IRC Entrance
In September, the Fuel Pantry experiences a record 951 visits—equating to 7,602 pounds of food distributed—as more students face food insecurity and demand continues to rise.
“Every donation makes a difference,” said COD Fuel Pantry Supervisor Linda Kozlowski. “We’re seeing more students turn to the pantry for support, and community contributions help ensure that no student has to choose between buying food and paying for other essentials.”
According to recent studies, as many as 39% of community college students nationwide experience food insecurity, underscoring the importance of initiatives like Feed the Need. By working together, Illinois community colleges are demonstrating their commitment to student well-being and to the communities they serve.