Now is the time to give, and students at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) are doing everything they can to make a difference.
They held a fundraiser on campus Saturday morning to benefit the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina and plan to continue the drive on Sunday.
“People can come and leave food and do whatever they need. We have trash cans here,” said Jay Weaver, NCSSM senior staff member and one of the organizers. “100% of all money goes straight to the food bank.”
Weaver noted that NCSSM has a rich history of community service. In 2011, the school set a Guinness World Record for the largest food drive in 24 hours.
“Since then, we haven’t been trying to set a record, we just want to show the community that the need has only increased,” Weaver said. “More and more people are relying on food banks.”
According to Food Bank of Central and Eastern North CarolinaOne in seven residents of the region faces food insecurity. This inspired neighbors to support the student initiative.
“It’s really nice to see kids getting involved in their community and making a difference,” said Marian Fragola, who lives across from NCSSM.
Grace Roberts, another senior volunteer, emphasized the importance of the action.
“This time of year, around the holidays, it’s really important for families to have food and feel safe,” she said.
In addition to food donations, students are accepting online donations. Every dollar donated can provide five meals a day to families in need. To contribute, visit this link.
The food drive continues Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at NCSSM Durham, located at 1219 Broad Street.
