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ULLIN, IL (October 8, 2025) —Shawnee Community College is joining community colleges across Illinois this fall to help address food insecurity through the second annual Feed The Need Campus Food Drive. From October 15 through December 1, 2025, SCC will collect non-perishable food items on campus, with donations benefiting Bernie’s Place on main campus and the College’s extension centers.
The statewide initiative, organized by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), engages campuses in a friendly competition while serving a critical need. Last year, Illinois community colleges collectively donated more than 91,000 food items to support students and families across the state.
“Last year, Shawnee Community College collected 2,346 items during the friendly competition, including Thanksgiving meals for several of our students. We’re proud to have placed fifth in the statewide contest, but even more proud of the difference we made. Supporting our students and community is what truly defines the Saints’ spirit.” said Vice President of Student Affairs Jeff McGoy.
Donation boxes will be located at Shawnee Community College’s main campus in Ullin, and its extension centers in Alexander, Massac, and Pulaski Counties. A collection bin will also be available at the Legence Bank branch in Vienna. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are encouraged to participate by dropping off non-perishable food items throughout the drive.
“Food insecurity remains one of the biggest barriers to student success. By joining forces across the state, community colleges can make a meaningful difference not only on campus but also in the communities they serve,” said Brian Durham, Executive Director of the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).
“Feed The Need represents the mission of community colleges, meeting students where they are, addressing real challenges, and building stronger communities together,” added ICCB Board Chair Dr. Sylvia Jenkins.
According to recent studies, as many as 39 percent of community college students nationally face food insecurity, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Feed the Need. By working together, Illinois community colleges are demonstrating their commitment to student well-being and to the communities they call home.
All donations collected at Shawnee Community College will directly support Bernie’s Place, ensuring students and local families have access to meals during the holiday season and beyond.
About the Feed The Need Food Drive
Launched in 2024, the Feed The Need Food Drive is a systemwide effort led by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) to address food insecurity on campuses across Illinois. The friendly competition engages all 39 community college districts in collecting food donations to benefit local food pantries and student support services.