If you’re sick of seeing the old towels in your room or the cleaning supplies you never use, the university has a solution. The 15th annual Kent State University/Change Hunger Holiday Food Drive is taking place now until Nov. 23.

Students are encouraged to donate non-perishable food, paper products, toiletries and supplies to the food drive, said Kerry Angle, who works in the Bursar’s Office. There are 160 collection bins around campus for donations.

“Donations will be turned over to Change Hunger, a local volunteer agency that works in benefit of the 17 food pantries, hot meal programs and shelters located throughout Portage County,” Angle said.

Students also can donate pet food, cleaning supplies, cat litter and old towels or blankets. These donations will be given to the Animal Protective League of Portage County, a shelter for homeless and abandoned animals throughout the area.

“The Holiday Food Drive collected over 6,000 pounds last year,” Angle said. “Our goal is to collect more than that this year.”

Students said donating to the drive is a great way to help those less fortunate.

“I think it does make a difference,” said Chrissy Salvo, a junior interpersonal communications major. “Even if it feeds one person, it’s still making a difference.”

Erin Biondo, a senior crafts major, said that people don’t realize how much good they can do for others.

“I think people underestimate their power to help others,” she said. “We get secluded in our own little world when really it’s our calling to give. Give what you want and give what you’ve been given.”

If students don’t want to bring items to campus, the food drive also is accepting monetary contributions. Checks can be made out to Change Hunger or the APL. Angle said she will give the checks to the presidents of both organizations after the drive is finished.

With the holiday season approaching, Angle said everyone is encouraged to participate in helping those in need throughout Portage County.

Contact social service reporter Katie Alberti [email protected].