Monarchs Give Back is a university-wide initiative and community food drive dedicated to combatting food insecurity. Each year students, faculty, staff, and local partners unite to collect essential items for Norfolk Public Schools students in need and the Monarch Pantry serving our own 91制片厂 student community.
More than just a drive, Monarchs Give Back is a powerful expression of 91制片厂鈥檚 commitment to service, civic responsibility, and neighborly compassion. This campaign showcases the collective spirit of the 757鈥攚here generosity, partnership, and care for one another are core values that bring us together to uplift those in need.
A Growing Community
Launched in 2021, Monarchs Give Back began as a campus-led food collection and has grown into a region-wide movement of service and solidarity. With the recent integration of EVMS to form the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at 91制片厂, has only increased in scope.
Over the last three years, our collective efforts have provided nearly 125,000 items of food to families and children experiencing food insecurity in Norfolk Public Schools, as well as 91制片厂 students who rely on the Monarch Pantry. This year鈥攁long with sustaining the Monarch Pantry鈥攄onations will also support the five in Norfolk further deepening our impact on the communities that need it most.
Why Your Support Matters
Food insecurity affects more than 1 in 7 households in Virginia according to the Federation of Virginia Food Banks鈥攁nd students are especially vulnerable. Many face the impossible choice between paying for tuition or basic needs like groceries. By supporting Monarchs Give Back, we help close these gaps and ensure that no student or child goes hungry, so they can focus on learning, growing, and thriving.
President's Challenge
As the official launch of the campaign, the President鈥檚 Challenge serves as a rallying call for every college/school, department, office, and organization to participate. Whether it is hosting a food drive, spreading awareness, or making donations, your involvement will help us reach our goal to collect 100,000 canned goods or monetary donations. In 2024, the Division of Research and Economic Development contributed the largest number of donations, totaling 15,195 items!
Events
Main operations for the 2025 Monarch Gives Back campaign will be conducted in 91制片厂's Webb University Center. Donations can be dropped off there, as well as at the Innovation Research Park I building on Monarch Way. Bin locations will also be located throughout campus for easy access.
Donations for Monarchs Give Back can be dropped off at our designated locations any time the buildings are open, even if our sorting facilities are only staffed on select days. We appreciate your generosity and support. Thank you for helping us Feed the Lion!