Several student organizations came together this season to make a meaningful impact on the local community through a collaborative food drive in partnership with the Merced Food Bank. Lewd by Restorative Justice League Club, the event marked the first time multiple clubs worked together on a single, large-scale food drive.

     The Interact Club, Key Club, Soroptimist Club, LULAC, and Wellness Club all played important roles in supporting the effort. Club leaders worked closely to organize donation efforts, spread awareness, and encourage student participation across campus. 

     “This is our first year partnering with the Merced Food Bank to organize a collaborative food drive with multiple clubs,” said Barragan. “Bringing so many groups together for one cause was both challenging and incredibly rewarding.”

     The food collected will be distributed directly to families and individuals in the community who are in need, especially during the colder months when food insecurity often increases. Organizers emphasized that the goal of the drive was not only to collect donations, but also to strengthen community connections and promote teamwork among students.

     While coordinating schedules and responsibilities was the most difficult part of the process all clubs helped ensure the event’s success. “I couldn’t have done this without my officer team and the officers from each club,” Barragan shared.

     Due to the positive response, there are plans to continue and expand the food drive in the future. Organizers hope to involve even more clubs and organizations, proving that when students work together, they can make a lasting difference in their community.