The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) recently held its Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, creating a spirit of unity among students, staff, and community partners. This event took place at the L. A. Davis Student Union and aimed to help local families during the holiday season.
This year, UAPB partnered with Neighbor to Neighbor, a nonprofit organization in Pine Bluff. They provide essential services like a daily soup kitchen and monthly grocery distributions to low-income families. Their work also includes helping with medical and utility bills, along with distributing clothing and household items. This collaboration highlights UAPB’s commitment to addressing community needs.
Groups from UAPB involved in the drive included various student organizations and campus departments, showing a collective effort to give back. Donations included non-perishable foods, toiletries, and traditional Thanksgiving items. These contributions are vital for families seeking support during tough times.
Frank D. Dorsey, II, UAPB’s Dean for Student Involvement and Leadership, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “As an 1890 land-grant institution, our mission is rooted in service and community uplift. Supporting Neighbor to Neighbor aligns perfectly with that mission,” he said. His words reflect a deep sense of purpose in connecting the university’s history with its present mission.
According to recent data, nearly one in eight people in the U.S. struggle with hunger, making community food drives increasingly important. Initiatives like those at UAPB can have a significant positive impact on local families. The food drive illustrates how collective action can provide relief and foster a sense of belonging.
As UAPB looks to the future, it remains dedicated to service and community health. By participating in these events, students and community members reinforce the idea that support for one another is a shared responsibility. These efforts not only assist those in need but also strengthen the bonds within the Southeast Arkansas community.
