The University of Utah Food Drive, organized by the Student Alumni Board (SAB), is a longstanding tradition at the U.

Started over 40 years ago, SAB is a campus organization with a focus on philanthropy, leadership development and connecting students with successful alumni. The board, led by senior Abukar Hassan, has 30 current members.

Other campus organizations, including The MUSS, ASUU and LDSSA have also contributed to collecting donations over the years. This year, all donations will be given to the University of Utah Feed U Food Pantry, a change from previous years when donations went to the Utah Food Bank.

Around 40% of college students are currently facing food insecurity. In light of economic inflation, it’s essential to raise awareness about food insecurity among college students. The Feed U Food Pantry at the U ensures that no individuals at the university go hungry. So far, the pantry has served over 1,400 University of Utah community members and their families with over 14,000 pounds of food. With the holidays coming up, the pantry is about to see its busiest season.

SAB has organized a live drive-through collection event from Nov. 15–17 at the Cleone Peterson Eccles Alumni House’s cul-de-sac. Participants can simply drive up, drop off their nonperishable food items, receive some swag and get their name entered into a drawing for tickets to the Utah vs. Colorado football game. Collections will also take place at the Colorado game, and SAB will continue collecting donations through January 2024.

Perishable food items can be dropped off in red bins marked with the Food Drive poster and a QR code located around campus, including at the Campus Store, Kahlert Village, the Union and LDS Institute of Religion building. Cash donations are also welcome.

SAB is also hosting a Friendsgiving dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 22 for students who won’t be able to make it home during the holiday season.