Families in the Mid-South will benefit from more than 21,000 meals thanks to the $6,300 donated by faculty, staff, and students during the annual University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Campus Food Drive. In addition, a total of more than 1,500 pounds of food were donated during the one-month collection period.
Held every year around the holiday season, the UTHSC Campus Food Drive is spearheaded by the Office of Special Events and Community Affairs. All donations are given to the Mid-South Food Bank.
“This is a time of joy and happiness for some,” said Pamela Houston, director of the Office of Special Events and Community Affairs. “Unfortunately, those who are less fortunate are made more aware of their misfortune during this season, and it can be disheartening. While we care that all have a nutritious meals 365 days a year, we are sensitive to the heightened need during this time. We are obligated, committed and called to use our resources to support the wellness of all.”
Located next to the Medical District, the Mid-South Food Bank works to fight food insecurity in the 31 counties it serves, fighting to end the food insecurity affecting 20.2 percent of the population in the area. For every $1 donated, the Mid-South Food Bank is able to purchase $6.78 worth of food equal to three adult meals.
Editor’s Note: On December 13 an additional $1,289 was donated toward the Campus Food Drive bringing the total contributions this year to $7,589 which surpassed last year’s total donations.