The University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) has announced its 2025 Holiday Food and Fund Drive (HFFD), introducing an exciting new opportunity for donors to increase their impact. This year, contributions will have triple the effect, as local benefactors Tibi McCann and Eric Jensen will match donations up to $50,000. Every dollar donated will now provide meals for three individuals for one day, which significantly amplifies the potential benefits for those in need.
How to Contribute and Participate
The HFFD, led by the Staff Advisory Board, supports the Second Harvest Food Bank. This initiative is unique because all donations go directly toward purchasing food for those facing food insecurity. Students can donate their Slug Points, Banana Bucks, and Flexi Dollars until December 11, 2025. Faculty, staff, and retirees have until January 15, 2026, to contribute, allowing for donations to count in both the current and following tax years.
For those interested in forming a sub-team within UCSC’s unified effort, Nathan McCall is available for assistance via email at [email protected].
Understanding the Need
The urgency of this year’s campaign is underscored by the significant local need due to changes in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. The Second Harvest Food Bank is recognized by governments in Santa Cruz County as a crucial organization for addressing these challenges. Through various initiatives, including the Redwood Free Market on campus, SHFB directly benefits UCSC students while also serving employees and families in the larger community.
The campaign theme for this year, “Give What You Get,” encourages participants to reflect on their own access to healthy food and consider how they can help others achieve the same. Suggested donation amounts based on the standard model, where one dollar feeds one person for one day, are as follows:
– Single-person household: $365
– Two-person household: $730
– Three-person household: $1,095
– Four-person household: $1,460
Donors are even invited to include their pets in their calculations, highlighting the community spirit of the drive.
For individuals or families needing food assistance, resources are available on the UCSC website to facilitate access to necessary support. The HFFD provides an opportunity for everyone to engage in a season of giving, regardless of their current circumstances.
The Staff Advisory Board and the HFFD team express their gratitude to all participants and emphasize the profound impact of collective generosity. This initiative not only aims to alleviate hunger but also fosters a supportive community spirit during the holiday season.
