Compassion and service are central to the Mercy core values that define Georgian Court University, and this holiday season, the campus community is putting them into action. As food insecurity and homelessness has become more prevalent, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness and support those in need.
The GCU Office of Mission & Ministry has organized a series of donation drives, educational programs, and hands-on activities, many in recognition of National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week (November 17-20). All events are free and open to the entire university community.
Events
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Interfaith Family Services Client Panel Discussion
8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., McAuley Hall
A panel of formerly unhoused individuals who have received services from Interfaith Family Services will share their experiences and discuss their struggles seeking and receiving help. This presentation will provide real-world insights into the importance of getting involved in change and learning about the inequities that exist.
GCU Oxfam Hunger Banquet
12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m., Casino
An interactive experience open to all students, staff, and faculty to educate and experience the realities of hunger and food insecurity.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
GCU Outerwear Free Thrift Event
10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Casino Ballroom
Stay warm this season with donated items from your GCU friends. All items are new and gently used. Free for the GCU community to take what you need.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
Thanksgiving Basket Making Party
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., Mercy Hall Arcade
Fill baskets/bags with donated food to benefit Providence House and Interfaith Family Services.
Donation Drives
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Donations due by November 18, 2025
Needed: Non-perishable items such as mac and cheese, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cornbread, canned vegetables, tea/coffee/juice, canned pumpkin, gravy, dessert dry mixes and fillings, cranberry sauce, and aluminum roasting pans.
Drop-off locations: Bins around campus and at the Campus Ministry Office (Mercy Hall).
Cozy Clothing Drive
Donations due by November 17, 2025
Needed: New or gently used winter coats, sweatshirts, scarves, hats, and gloves.
Drop-off locations: Jeffries Hall, Farley Center, Mercy Hall.
Giving Tree
Donations due by December 8, 2025
Needed: New, unwrapped toys, books, and games for children and teens (ages 0–18).
Drop-off location: Campus Ministry Office (Mercy Hall).
More Giving Back
Students in Gen 100 classes assembled 90 birthday party baskets so that everyone can celebrate their birthday, regardless of their living situation. Each basket contained two cake pans, cake mix, icing, cooking spray, soda, birthday banners, plates, and candles. Baskets were donated to Interfaith Family Services, Providence House, We are Loved, Harbor House, Mercy Center, and Oak Street School.
Gen 100 students, Women’s Lacrosse team members, and other GCU student volunteers assembled over 120 lunches for St. Peter’s Free Lunch Program. Each lunch included two sandwiches, water, applesauce, two snacks, a napkin, and a spoon. No one should go hungry.
A new partnership between Campus Ministry and the Wawa Foundation now provides approximately 40 sandwiches each week, which are distributed to the campus community, free of charge, on Monday mornings in the Jeffries Hall Lobby. The sandwiches are provided by Wawa Store #0937-1725 Hooper Ave., in Toms River, N.J. Please visit this store and say thank you.
Julian’s Cupboard, GCU’s student food pantry located in Mercy Hall, is open to all students and offers canned goods, personal care products, frozen foods, and more. No paperwork and no questions asked. Donations are accepted year-round.
For more information about any of these events or to get involved, please contact Campus Minister Amy Cerreta at 732-987-2691.
