Faculty and staff of Tunxis Community College organized a holiday toy and food drive on campus to benefit less fortunate students who use thePantry@Tunxis on campus.

A total of 25 students received holiday food baskets, with enough food to feed their families—61 people in all. “Thanks to the generous donations, we are also providing a Stop and Shop gift card to each family with their food basket,” said Tunxis professor Amy Feest, a coordinator of thePantry@Tunxis. “We hope this makes the holidays a little brighter for these families.”

Faculty, staff and student clubs also sponsored 24 children of student Pantry members, purchasing over $1,200 in gifts for the children. Every child received a book and $50 worth of gifts.

ThePantry@Tunxis opened this fall to provide short-term food assistance to Tunxis students who may be experiencing financial difficulties. The Tunxis food pantry is a joint volunteer effort of employees and students throughout the college. It is run by volunteers from all parts of the college community including the TCC Human Service and Service Learning Club students.

A list of requested donation items is posted on the pantry website at tunxis.edu/pantry, and can be donated to the pantry during open hours. Donation boxes are also located in the 100 Building main entrance and in the 700 Building lobby. Donations may be in the form of nonperishable food, personal care items or gift cards to local grocery stores. Cash donations are also accepted through the Cashier’s Office (860.773.1315). Please contact [email protected] or call 860.773.1631 with any questions about donations.

Tunxis Community College offers over 60 associate degrees and certificates, providing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare students for transfer to bachelor’s degree programs and employment in areas with industry need.

Tunxis is located at the junction of Routes 6 and 177 in Farmington. For a map of campus, visit tunxis.edu/map.