Rowan University’s Office of Volunteerism & Community Engagement is holding an “Adopt A Family” Thanksgiving food drive. With families still struggling due to economic hardship caused by the pandemic, this is an opportunity for Rowan students and staff to come together and help the Glassboro and South Jersey communities. 

“We feed over 150 families through Adopt a Family. Rowan students, faculty, and staff, as well as Glassboro community members eagerly participate in this program to help those families in need,” said Noelle Garcia, a graduate student and graduate coordinator for the Office of Volunteerism and Community Engagement.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges to the Rowan community, it did not slow the participation of the Rowan community in this event.

“Members of the Rowan community are always very excited to participate in this event. So excited they typically reach out to the office before we even make an announcement for the start of the program,” said Garcia.

Rowan students and staff can come together to help those in need.

To get involved, email your interest in the Adopt a Family program to volunteer@rowan.edu,  along with the size of the family you want to adopt– small, medium, or large. Once you receive a response, you will be matched with a family and be given a shopping list of items to purchase. 

Donation drop-off will take place in the Student Center, room 144. Donations begin on Nov. 16 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. From Nov. 17 to Nov. 19, the hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Boxes will be provided at the drop-off location.

While we have been isolated over the past year and a half, we can still come together and make a difference in our community. 

If you have missed the window to participate in this food drive, The Office of Volunteerism and Community Engagement will host many more programs and events for Rowan students to participate in.

“This event is important because it’s an easy way to get the Rowan community together. We’re able to provide for those less fortunate than us during a time of need,” Garcia said.

Students interested in the office or in making a difference by helping can view upcoming events on Rowan University’s Office of Volunteerism & Community Engagement ProfLink page here.

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