The University of Florida Collegiate Farm Bureau has embarked on a creative mission in 2023. Their aim is to ease the hunger with a Gator-twist. Collaborating with various university entities since 2020, they’ve consistently hosted the ExtravaCANza, an event distinct from typical food drives.
Instead of merely gathering cans, participants are tasked with building sculptures from canned goods and everyday items. The creativity on display was amazing, from detailed depictions of sports stadiums to farmscapes.
Funding from the American Farm Bureau Federation's Mini-Grant program made it possible to acquire over 500 pounds of canned goods for the event. These were later generously donated to the Alan and Cathy Hitchcock Field & Fork Pantry, an initiative serving the UF community.
The success of the event, drawing 50 participants including 10 CALS groups, 40 students, and faculty members, wasn't just in numbers but in its substantial impact on the university populace. The ambition now? Doubling the participation in subsequent years.