With the semester coming to a close, University of Memphis students wishing to give back to the Memphis community should have plenty of time and opportunities to volunteer during the holidays.
Opportunities to donate time, food and other necessities are numerous over the next month. And according to local charities, Memphians always rise to the occasion to provide for those less fortunate.
"We always need food donations and people in this community are always extremely generous during the holidays," said Herbie Krisle, community relations director for the Food Bank.
She said that her organization experiences a small increase in demand during the holiday season, but for the most part their collection and distribution remains relatively constant year-round.
"We distribute almost one million pounds of food each month," Krisle said.
The University of Memphis staff senate is coordinating its own food drive on campus to benefit the Memphis Food Bank.
"We will be conducting a food drive on campus from Nov. 29 through Dec. 2," said Caryl Gray, secretary of the staff senate. "This is something that the staff senate has been wanting to do for a couple of years, so we've notified all University employees."
The staff senate will have large canned food collection bins set up in McWherter Library, Physical Plant lobby, Wilder Tower, Administration Building, and the University Center near the information desk.
"We've also asked individual offices in various departments and colleges to hold their own drives," Gray said. "We hope to replenish the food stores at the Food Bank warehouse."
The Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA) has many opportunities for donations and volunteer involvement in December.
"We'll be taking meals to seniors as part of our regular delivery program," said Bert Kelly, director of public relations for MIFA. "We have plenty of opportunities for students and volunteers to get involved during the rest of the holiday season."
Kelly offered multiple ideas for Memphians and students wanting to give back to the community.
MIFA will be collecting blankets for senior citizens at its 910 Vance headquarters. The 29th annual MIFA toy collection for families in need will be accepting donations at MIFA headquarters, the Memphis Agricenter Farmer's Market and all area Danver's restaurants.
Memphis Food Bank will have canned food collection barrels at all area AutoZone stores through December.
"I would encourage all students to participate in The U of M staff food drive on campus next week," she said. "We are in need of donations throughout the entire year."
