As the winter break begins, Bison look forward to a well-earned rest. The spirit of “Truth and Service” never stops, however, and across campus students and staff alike have been working to give back to the community. Led by WHUR FM, Howard University Alternative Spring Break (HUASB) volunteers, and the Office of the Dean of the Chapel, the donation drives below are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes demonstrating the Howard family's commitment to supporting others.

FOOD2FEED 2025 Smashes Goal

This year, WHUR 96.3 FM’s 47th Annual FOOD2FEED Radiothon truly outdid itself. Co-organized with Truist, Macys, and HUASB, and the Office of the Dean of the Chapel, the donation drive raised over $61,000 for families in need — well over the initial $40,000 goal — as well as a truckload of nonperishable food to help feed families experiencing hardship this holiday season. Outside the studios, HUASB volunteers stood on Georgia Ave., calling for donations in person.

Monetary donations for the fund are still open through the end of the year. Donate today.

23rd Annual Toy Drive 

Also organized by WHUR-FM, this year the Annual Toy Drive hit a brought in over 2,000 toys last Saturday, Dec. 13. The donations will go to children in need across the DMV, distributed by a network of nonprofit organizations.

“The WHUR family once again showed what the power of community looks like,” said Sean Plater, general manager of WHUR-FM, in a story on the station’s website. “For 23 years, our listeners, partners, and staff have come together to ensure children feel seen, valued, and loved during the holidays. This toy drive is more than gifts — it’s hope, joy, and reassurance for families who need it most.”

Bison Holiday Give Back

Formerly known as the Howard University Angel Tree Project, each year the Bison Holiday Give Back brings joy to those in need, as Howard university students, faculty, staff, and community members donate requested gifts for Washington, D.C., children, affectionately referred to as “Bison Babies.” The program is coordinated by the Howard University Chapel Assistants, who work with schools, shelters, and community centers to identify children in need. 

This year, over 600 individual gifts from over 130 groups and individuals were distributed to local children. Groups of volunteers and the Howard mailroom partnered to ensure each gift was wrapped, tagged, and delivered. 

“The project was humbling in the way it challenged me both as a leader and as a person,” said Chapel Assistants President and sophomore nursing major Alexis Conner. “Reflecting on how easy it is to get caught up in what we lack, Bison Holiday Give Back offers a chance to see what small acts it takes to allow this holiday season to shine a little brighter for the children and youth in our community.”

“I am always so moved by the commitment of our students to serve the community,” said Rankin Chapel Dean Bernard L. Richardson. “In this difficult year for many families in Washington, D.C., we are very grateful for the Howard University community coming together to support the students’ efforts.”

A Chance to Give Year-Round

It doesn’t have to be the holidays to give back. If you’re looking for a way to make a year-round impact, consider donating to HUASB. Your gift helps to ensure Howard students are able to make an impact in disadvantaged communities across the globe.