Spoon River College is joining community colleges across Illinois this fall to help address food insecurity through the second annual Feed The Need Campus Food Drive. From October 15 through December 1, 2025, the college will collect non-perishable food items on campus, with donations benefiting local food pantries.
The statewide initiative, organized by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), engages all 39 community college districts in a friendly competition while serving a critical need. Last year, Illinois community colleges collectively donated more than 91,000 food items to support students and families across the state.
All donations collected will benefit the local food pantries and the SRC Student Needs pantries in the community they are donated in, ensuring students and local families have access to meals during the holiday season and beyond.
“At Spoon River College, we know that students can’t focus on their education if their basic needs aren’t met. Participating in the Feed the Need Food Drive is one way we can help remove those barriers,” said Missy Wilkinson, dean of student services at Spoon River College. “It’s also a great reminder of what’s possible when our college and community come together to support one another. Every contribution matters and helps make a real difference for our students.”
Donation boxes will be located in the lower level of Centers in the cafeteria and at the Havana, Macomb, and Rushville campuses. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are encouraged to participate by dropping off non-perishable food items throughout the drive.
“Food insecurity remains one of the biggest barriers to student success. By joining forces across the state, community colleges can make a meaningful difference not only on campus but also in the communities they serve,” said Brian Durham, executive director of the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).
“Feed The Need represents the mission of community colleges—meeting students where they are, addressing real challenges, and building stronger communities together,” added ICCB Board Chair Dr. Sylvia Jenkins.
According to recent studies, as many as 39 percent of community college students nationally face food insecurity, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Feed the Need. By working together, Illinois community colleges are demonstrating their commitment to student well-being and to the communities they call home.