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‘Horns Up for Hope’ food and winter clothing drive runs through Dec. 5

Students pose with Victor around a food donation bin in Alumni Arena.

Victor E. Bull joins UB members of the Empire State Service Corps taking part in the "Horns Up for Hope" food and winter clothing drive. The students set up collection bins at Alumni Arena for fans attending the men's basketball game on Friday. Photo: Danielle Fey

By GRACE GERASS

Published November 11, 2025

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Jordan Nicholson.
““‘Horns Up for Hope’ gives every student, faculty and staff member a tangible way to make a difference — one can, one coat, one act of kindness at a time. That’s what being a true community partner looks like. ”
Jordan Nicholson, director
Office of Community Relations

The UB community is encouraged to participate in “Horns Up for Hope,” a monthlong food and winter clothing drive supporting local community members in need, now through Dec. 5.

“Even in challenging times, the UB community never hesitates to rally for others,” says Jordan Nicholson, director of community relations. “‘Horns Up for Hope’ gives every student, faculty and staff member a tangible way to make a difference — one can, one coat, one act of kindness at a time. That’s what being a true community partner looks like.”

The list of drop-off locations across the UB community, as well as a wish list of non-perishable food items and new or gently used winter clothing, can be found here.

“Horns Up for Hope” kicked off Nov. 7 at the UB men’s basketball game against Green Bay at Alumni Arena. The day was declared a SUNY-wide day of combating food insecurity, during which Gov. Kathy Hochul and SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. called upon members of the Empire State Service Corps and all New Yorkers to commit to a day of hunger action.

Students on a tour of the Blue Table food pantry.

Brianna Bengert (far left), student needs coordinator in the Dean of Students Office, speaks with UB students from the Empire State Service Corps in the Blue Table food pantry. Photo: Douglas Levere

More than 50 UB students are enrolled in the Empire State Service Corps, which pays students to complete 300 hours of community service that addresses critical community needs. These students helped UB staff members set up collection bins throughout UB’s three campuses and assisted with collecting items donated by fans at the basketball game.

“The dedicated SUNY students who participate in the Empire State Service Corps program serve our state in a multitude of civic engagement opportunities, and they are ready to step up in this food insecurity crisis,” King said in a press release. “We thank Governor Hochul for her steadfast support of the Empire State Service Corps and the trust that she places in each of our students to be a part of this day of hunger action.”

For those looking for additional ways to make an impact, FeedMore WNY is seeking monetary donations to purchase additional food and supplies and volunteers to deliver meals to neighbors in need this holiday season.

For more information, contact communityrelations@buffalo.edu.