Liberty Dining’s Food Drive Surpasses 2,000 Pounds

Liberty Dining by Sodexo celebrated a record-breaking success with its annual fall food drive, collecting 2,848 pounds of donations for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (BRAFB) in Lynchburg. Held from October 17 to November 14, the initiative united Liberty University’s students, faculty, and staff to make a significant difference for the local community.

Departments across campus partnered in the effort, including the School of Education, Residence Life, Enrollment Management, CASAS, the School of Aeronautics, the School of Nursing, the School of Behavioral Sciences, Jerry Falwell Library, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Helms School of Government. Each department hosted collection barrels and encouraged participation. Main campus drop-off locations included Reber-Thomas Dining Center and areas near the campus gym, streamlining the donation process.

The campus community exceeded this year’s goal of collecting 2,000 pounds—surpassing past efforts of 1,300 to 1,700 pounds. By the November 18 weigh-in, 2,213 pounds of donations were delivered to BRAFB. Sodexo added a matching donation worth $2,000, contributing an additional 635 pounds. In total, the food drive resulted in a donation of 2,848 pounds, equivalent to 2,370 meals for individuals and families in the Lynchburg area.

James Quade, Branch Operations Manager for BRAFB’s Southern Region, highlighted the impact of the donation, noting that it arrived at a critical time when the food bank was running low on emergency food boxes. Liberty Dining’s contribution will not only address immediate needs but also replenish supplies for other local food banks.

This year’s food drive marked the most successful in Liberty Dining’s history. Several partners reported filling and replacing collection barrels multiple times, reflecting the generosity and enthusiasm of the campus community.

Liberty Dining extended its gratitude to students, faculty, and staff for surpassing the ambitious goal and supporting neighbors in need. By fostering a spirit of giving, Liberty University continues to make a lasting impact in the Lynchburg community.