The University of California, Santa Cruz (UC Santa Cruz) is gearing up for its annual Holiday Food and Fund Drive (HFFD), with exciting updates for 2025. This year’s initiative introduces a “triple impact” opportunity, allowing donations to provide significantly greater assistance to those in need. Generous contributions will now ensure that every dollar donated translates to three meals for individuals in the community.
Tibi McCann and Eric Jensen have been instrumental in enhancing the drive’s impact over the years. Previously, their contributions doubled the effect of donations up to the first $50,000 raised. In 2025, they are expanding this commitment, making every dollar go three times as far in addressing hunger in the area. For those interested in the mechanics of this initiative, detailed information is available on how this triple impact is achievable.
How to Contribute and Timeline
The HFFD is coordinated each year by the Staff Advisory Board, who lead UC Santa Cruz’s collaboration with the Second Harvest Food Bank. A key feature of this drive is that 100% of all donations directly support food purchases for individuals in need.
Contributions can be made by students until December 11, 2025, allowing only a few days for students to donate their extra Slug Points, Banana Bucks, and Flexi Dollars. Employees and retirees have until January 15, 2026, to contribute. This provides a unique opportunity to donate in both tax years during the same campaign. Those wishing to establish a sub-team within the broader UC Santa Cruz effort can contact Nathan McCall for assistance.
The Need and the Call to Action
The need for food assistance is particularly pressing this year, partly due to changes in federal SNAP funding. Local authorities in Santa Cruz County have recognized the Second Harvest Food Bank as a vital resource for addressing food insecurity within the community. The bank actively supports UC Santa Cruz students through initiatives like the Redwood Free Market and extends its reach to employees in the surrounding areas.
The campaign encourages participants to embrace the theme: “Give What You Get.” The initiative emphasizes the importance of providing healthy meals for those less fortunate. Suggested donation amounts based on the standard model—where $1 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
Participants are encouraged to consider all members of their household, including pets, when calculating their contributions.
For those in need of food assistance, a dedicated webpage offers resources and support. The seasonal nature of giving and receiving is acknowledged, prompting individuals to participate fully in whichever capacity they can.
The Holiday Food and Fund Drive team expresses gratitude to all contributors for their role in combating hunger and fostering hope within the community. Your participation can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
