The Durham Lords basketball and volleyball teams are partnering with the Durham College Student Association (DCSA) Support Hub Food Bank to support students and community members facing food and clothing insecurity.
They’re encouraging students and community members to give back to those in need during home games, as the winter season approaches.
Cory Pharand, outside hitter and Sports Management student, said Christmas is approaching and donating food and clothing can help those in need during this season.
“We bring in a couple more people, and we’re hoping that we can get those people who are coming into our seats to donate and help make Christmas and holiday time easier and a lot better for families and people in the Durham area,” he said.
He added the volleyball and basketball teams are doing this “a little more than other teams” because they have “a little bigger draw in the community.”
Varsity teams also have a large population and heavy fan base, which brings more people out to support.
In Saturday’s game against La Cité, 250 people were in attendance, according to the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) website.
Jalen Arias setter and Fitness and Promotion student, explained the support they get.
“Varsity teams are in a fairly populated area and a lot of fans bring out their support for us, and we also provide free admissions as a way to bring the community together when they come out for our games,” he said.
The team also understands the importance of building a community.
“Fostering a healthy environment where everybody feels comfortable and everybody feels like they can come here,” he said, “[and] have a good time with no judgment and know that they will be supported.”
Jonas Felix, libero and an Accounting student, understands his nutritional needs and the importance of having a healthy diet as an athlete and said there are people in the community who struggle to stay warm and healthy.
“There are people that can’t afford good nutrition and heat during the winter and it’s very important to stay healthy and donate to get back to the community,” he said.
The teams are looking for new or gently used winter clothing and non-perishable food items.
This initiative kicked off this week and wraps up on Nov. 29. The team will accept food, clothes, and hygiene products at all home games, including at their next game when they play St. Lawrence College on Nov. 21 at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.