The annual Governor’s State Employees Food Drive kicks off March 1, offering an opportunity for employees across the state to donate and lift up food insecure Oregonians. 

Employees are encouraged to donate, particularly if they have never participated before, in an amount that feels appropriate for their personal situation. 

When March begins, donations can be made online, either through the special online donation link specific to the drive or by completing the online payroll deduction (Duck ID login required) request form. 

Cans and other shelf stable items can be dropped off in Food For Lane County barrels located in the Lillis Business Complex lobby, the O Desk in the Erb Memorial Union and in the lobby of the UO Rec Center. Some departments may opt to have smaller bins inside their offices. UO Portland and the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology donations can be designated to local food banks.

Funds offer regional food banks flexibility to add resources where they are needed most, such as purchasing most-needed foods quickly or responding after an impactful event like the recent ice storms. The need is greater in Lane County than Oregon at large and was on the rise even before the inclement weather. 

“Because many pandemic-era benefits that helped families in poverty expired in March 2023, we're seeing a huge increase in need in our community, as many as 60 to 75 percent more visitors to pantries around the county,” said Rebecca Sprinson, director of development at FOOD for Lane County. “We're purchasing food at high rates and trying to make every donated can and box of pasta count.”

“We would love to have those who have never given before take part,” said Sandy Weintraub, one of the event organizers. “Even small donations can make a big impact if more of us are contributing.”

The Governor’s State Employees Food Drive has been active for over 40 years, and all public agencies and universities are encouraged to participate. Since 1982, the food drive has raised the equivalent of more than 70 million meals for food insecure Oregonians. One of the components of the food drive is the Governor’s Challenge, which bids employees to donate the equivalent of $15 per month. 

The food drive runs March 1 to 31. 

Workplace will publish stories throughout the month highlighting opportunities to get involved. Send an email to fooddrive@uoregon.edu to get connected.