February 14, 2017

From February 6 to February 10, 2017, faculty and staff from Medicine Hat College (MHC) participated in a food rally, with departments competing to raise food and stock the shelves of the MHC Student Food Bank. The “Keep Calm and Give What you Can(ned)” initiative was led by students from the Presidents Student Advisory Council (PSAC), a student leadership initiative composed of 12 students from all areas of study across MHC.

“We were looking for an opportunity to engage with staff and faculty, but in a way that allowed us to serve our student population. We have seen an increase in users this year, and a food rally with a little bit of friendly competition seemed like the perfect fit,” says Beth Lewis, who is a member of PSAC and also president of the Students’ Association.

The Students Food Bank can be accessed by any student who identifies their need to the Students’ Association. Up to 3 days-worth of food (including gift cards for fresh produce) is given to support the students, and some may also receive referrals to the Medicine Hat & District Food Bank.

The SA estimates demand has increased about 72% this school term.

 

“The student food bank serves an important function on campus, as we have many students who face significant financial challenges – particularly as we see more mature students with other life and family commitments to consider while they are going to school,” says Dr. Denise Henning, president and CEO of Medicine Hat College. “We are very proud of the PSAC group for recognizing this need and encouraging employees at Medicine Hat College to support the cause.”

In total, more than $1000.00 in gift cards and $2500.00 worth of food was raised. The winner of the interdepartmental competition was facility operations (with support from employees of contract service provider, Johnson Controls) raising over $300.00 in gift cards and over $400.00 worth of food.

The winners will be hosted by PSAC members for a luncheon, both to celebrate and to say thank you.