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College’s commitment to charity efforts yields success

Dr. Brad Case stands in front of a board full of stars claimed by faculty and others who supported a needy child through a gift. (Photo courtesy of SACS)

Two ongoing college programs, one aimed at children from needy families and one intended to help offset hunger through a local food bank, generated a wonderful response from faculty, staff and students who participated.

The “Wish Upon A Star” program, sponsored by the department of small animal clinical sciences, generated 120 gifts — three for each child — for 40 needy children and were delivered to Partnership for Strong Families on Nov. 29. Christel Holley of the SACS coordination team assembled two of the bicycles that came in boxes.

The Partnership for Strong Families group is a part of the Department of Children and Families. There are currently 1,000 children, who range in age up to teenagers, who are a part of the agency’s caseload. Many of these kids are with their parent or parents but have open cases and others are also separated from their parent or parents. The group primarily helps these children by assisting with fostering and adoption. Several other UF-associated groups and departments also support this program.

Members of the SACS administrative office pose with gifts collected for the Wish Upon A Star holiday program. From left to right are: Sharon Carter, Shaniqua Grace, Barbara DuPont, Kathryn Mendez, Christel Holley and Caitlin Tomczak. (Photo courtesy of SACS)

The “Wish Upon A Star” program involves creation of stars that consist of three top wishes for a number of children. The department committed to being responsible for three stars for 40 children, which adds up to 120 gifts.

Dr. Brad Case, who plays a key leadership role in the program’s efforts, could not be present on the day of delivery but conveyed his pride in the program and appreciation to all who contributed.

“I was sad to have missed the loading of the trucks, as this has become such an important event for me, and I know for everyone else who contributes as well,” Case said. “I wish I could have seen the smiles on the kids’ faces, but can imagine how happy they must have been, and that’s good enough.”

The first set of donations to the Bread of the Mighty Food Bank yielded 372 pounds of food, or the equivalent of 286 meals. Another pick-up is scheduled on Dec. 22.

Many thanks to all who have helped coordinate and support these programs.