UF’s artistic approach to end hunger

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. 

Dr. Charlotte Emerson, a guiding force behind the initiative, underscores the importance of collaborative efforts. She believes that teaming up with educational stakeholders not only infuses fun but accentuates the core issue - local food deprivation. The grant provided, she asserts, was instrumental. It eliminated a significant barrier, encouraging more groups to join and thus broadening the event's impact on tackling campus hunger. 

For those eyeing similar support, the 2023-2024 grant cycle of the American Farm Bureau Federation's Collegiate Farm Bureau Mini-Grant program is now open. More details can be found at fb.org/cfbgrants.