Selkirk College distributed 55 holiday food hampers to students, thanks to the dedicated fundraising efforts of students in the Steps to Opportunities, Academics and Readiness (SOAR) Program on the Silver King Campus and the generosity of donors on Giving Day, an annual fundraiser to support key priorities.
Packed with non-perishable food items, the hampers are one of the ways the college supports students experiencing food insecurity. “The rising cost of food and rent has had a significant impact on students,” says Marissa Carrasco, director of student engagement and wellness. “Whether it’s limited access to nutritious food or the need to skip meals altogether, food insecurity can affect both academic success and mental well-being. We’re incredibly grateful to SOAR students and our community for stepping up to support learners in need.”
Students who face challenges accessing nutritious food throughout the year can also visit on-campus food pantries or apply for emergency assistance. You can help make a difference—donate today to help ensure students have access to vital resources and supports year-round.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, Selkirk College distributed 15 more hampers this year than last year. These donations helped supplement the funds raised by SOAR students, who sell popcorn weekly throughout the year to support the initiative.
“SOAR students build transferable employability skills such as recipe planning, organizing and sorting products and preparing the hampers,” says Carrasco. “It’s hands-on, practical, and deeply meaningful—the students take great pride in giving back.”