The Syracuse University community is set to come together on December 2, 2025, for Giving ’CUSEday, an initiative aligned with the global Giving Tuesday movement. This event aims to support students experiencing food insecurity and to raise funds for essential scholarships through The Syracuse Promise.
The initiative seeks to eliminate financial barriers for students by providing scholarships that enable them to pursue their education. Participants can contribute online on Giving ’CUSEday, ensuring that talented and deserving students benefit from the support they need.
Support for Food Security and Scholarships
In addition to online donations, students, faculty, staff, and alumni can participate in a food drive by dropping off nonperishable items at the Schine Student Center Atrium between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the same day. This collection drive is organized by the Forever Orange Student Alumni Council (FOSAC), with all donated items scheduled for delivery to Hendricks Chapel the following day. Alumni office representatives will also attend the event, providing information on the impact of alumni contributions and offering prizes to participants.
Jenna Orlando, a student who has benefited from scholarships, shared her perspective on the importance of giving back. “As a student who’s benefited from scholarship support, it means a lot to give back and help others access the same opportunities. Being part of Giving ’CUSEday lets me pay that support forward and make a real difference for other students,” she stated.
Addressing Increasing Demand at the Food Pantry
The Coach Mac Food Pantry, established in 2013, has evolved from a modest initiative into an essential resource for the university community. Currently, it serves between 100 and 250 students each week across two locations: one at Hendricks Chapel and another on South Campus. The pantry provides free food and personal care items to any student with a valid Syracuse University or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry identification.
In addition to distributing food, the pantry connects students with resources that promote long-term stability. Financial contributions are crucial for maintaining a well-stocked inventory, which includes fresh produce, protein-rich snacks, soups, pasta, and hygiene essentials.
Individuals looking to support the initiative can participate in several ways. Donations can be dropped off at the Schine Student Center on December 2, or contributions can be made online to either the Coach Mac Food Pantry or the General Scholarship Fund.
Every gift plays a significant role in supporting students and addressing food insecurity on campus. The Syracuse University community encourages everyone to contribute and make this Giving ’CUSEday impactful. Together, they can create a positive change in the lives of those who need it most.
