DURANGO, Colo. — Skyhawk Athletics donated 172 pounds of nonperishable food items to the Durango Food Bank after a canned food drive at the Dec. 11 men's and women's basketball games against Adams State.
The food drive was part of an effort to help families in need during the holiday season.
Fans who donated canned goods received two-for-one admission to the games. Additionally, each of FLC's out-of-season varsity teams paired with an on-campus residence hall to raise school spirit and collect donations.
Women's soccer All-American
Hayley Hollenga, Athletic Department student-intern
Adam Ruetschle and Assistant Director of Athletics for External Operations and Communications
Chris Aaland delivered the donations to the Durango Food Bank on Dec. 17.
A near-equal amount of canned goods was donated by Morehart Murphy Regional Auto Center that same day. Morehart Murphy offered free tickets to the Dec. 11 Skyhawk basketball doubleheader in exchange for donations.
Fans who donated were entered into a drawing at the games to receive tickets for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad's Polar Express holiday train.
“The generosity of our student-athletes, fans and corporate partners was overwhelming,” said Aaland. “Durango is a special community filled with thousands of people who are willing to help out those in need.
“The Durango Food Bank provides a valuable service for our community, especially during the winter months when heating costs soar, seasonal employment opportunities end, and families are struggling to make ends meet during the holidays,” he added.
“It was an emotional experience to see one load of canned goods after another dropped off at the Durango Food Bank by generous businesses and individuals,” Aaland said. “It also opened our eyes as to the constant need for donations. Ours was just a tiny drop in the bucket of what is donated on a daily basis.”
The Durango Food Bank provides emergency food staples to needy families. It is a registered 501© (3) charitable organization. Donations are needed year 'round. To donate, visit the Durango Food Bank at 194-C Bodo Drive or call (970) 375-2672.
