Lock Haven campus recently wrapped up its annual “Food for Fines” event, which combines community spirit with a creative solution to parking tickets. This initiative invites students and staff to donate canned goods to get their parking fines forgiven.
From November 10 to 21, participants exchanged five canned items for each parking ticket forgiven. The result? A remarkable collection of 1,245 food items and nearly $250 in parking fines lifted from students’ shoulders.
Leo Sokoloski, the director of Commonwealth University police, shared the heart behind the initiative. “Our role is more than just enforcement. We aim to foster community and service,” he explained. This event exemplifies that goal by showcasing the police as not just enforcers but as active partners in community welfare.
At each campus, donations went to local food pantries. Bloomsburg Food Cupboard, Haven Cupboard at Lock Haven, and Mansfield’s Campus Cupboard all benefited from the community’s generosity. Sokoloski emphasized the importance of such efforts, especially as the holiday season approaches. It’s a reminder that service and compassion can thrive within educational spaces.
Statistics show that food insecurity affects millions in the U.S. A recent report found that about 10.5% of American households struggled with hunger in 2021. Programs like Food for Fines not only alleviate immediate needs but also encourage a culture of giving at universities. Engaging students in charitable acts can have lasting impacts on their values and community ties.
Overall, this initiative has turned a potentially negative experience into a positive contribution. It shows how simple actions, like donating a few canned goods, can come together to make a big difference in the community.
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