Oct. 27, 2008

The Student-Athlete Advisory Council (S.A.A.C.) sponsored Canned Food Drive at Maryland Madness continues to be a success. Thanks to the hard work of all the Terp teams, we were able to raise 2,100 pounds of food for the underprivileged in the surrounding community.

The student-athletes working at Maryland Madness showed great enthusiasm to every Maryland fan entering the Comcast Center. Fans donated cans by the boxful, adding to the record number of non-perishable items already contributed by student-athletes.  Many teams had athletic competitions during Maryland Madness and could not attend, but their S.A.A.C. representatives did an amazing job of rallying their teammates to donate cans to the cause.

Blaise Stanicic, S.A.A.C. Secretary and organizing member of the food drive was proud of the efforts: "It was great to see how much food these teams donated even though they were unable to attend Maryland Madness. Each student-athlete was able to play a part in making Maryland Madness a great community service event. Whether athletes helped to collect cans or donated cans themselves, everyone came together to help the Capital Area Food Bank and those they serve. This was a true testament of achievement to the goals set forth by the S.A.A.C."

The Capital Area Food Bank has requested that University of Maryland student-athletes visit their facilities, as the S.A.A.C. attempts to forge a stronger relationship with community agencies. To find information about the Capital Area Food Bank, ways to donate, and volunteer services, visit their website: www.capitalareafoodbank.org.