by Nia Hill (DCA Student, Student Affairs Marketing & Communications)

The sound of the bang of the gong filled the UAB Hill Student Center ballrooms, followed by cheers of joy from Blazers as they celebrated the completion of packages of food destined to help combat food insecurity. That triumphant sound represents one person who doesn’t have to worry about their next meal.

On Tuesday, November 14, UAB’s Leadership and Service Council hosted its annual Rise Against Hunger packing event. UAB students volunteered to pack meals to be sent to international charities and distributed to men, women, and children fighting starvation.

According to Rise Against Hunger, 821 million people globally don’t receive adequate nutrition for leading an active, healthy lifestyle.

UAB students kicked off fall 2023 by packaging over 20,000 meals that were sent to the Philippines. The meals contained non-perishable goods such as rice, soy, vegetables, and a flavoring mix.

The UAB Leadership and Service Council is a student led organization designed to promote volunteerism, conscientious citizenship, and leadership development through the planning and execution of signature university programs. They aim to provide service based opportunities for UAB students that combine elements of social change and civic engagement to develop socially responsible leaders that support UAB and the surrounding communities.

For more information about Rise Against Hunger or how to get involved, visit the Rise Against Hunger website.