WASHINGTON - For a second year in a row, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) of AU Athletics is joining forces with TEAM AU corporate partner Wegmans to host and staff collection stations for a food drive at upcoming Eagles' sporting events throughout the month of February. The collection dates will include five men's basketball games, three women's basketball games, two lacrosse games, and two wrestling duals.

The SAAC will collect canned and non-perishable food items in support of AU's The Market, a student food pantry, helping to combat and assist those AU students affected by food insecurity.

"Making a difference in every community we serve is part of who we are at Wegmans," said Drease Yarbro, General Manager of Wegmans City Ridge. "We are proud to continue this partnership with AU Athletics and AU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee on this initiative, supporting The Market food pantry.  We are committed to improving the physical, emotional, and mental health of our communities. This partnership is just one example of that commitment being put into action here in the District. We look forward to a successful campaign and encourage our customers to join us in this effort. Together, we can improve lives and make our neighborhoods stronger."

All fans are asked to bring a food donation to the games beginning with the Feb. 1 home men's basketball game against Army in Bender Arena at 2 p.m.

"Our team is incredibly grateful for the continued partnership of AU Athletics, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Wegmans in uplifting The Market's mission to combat college food insecurity," said Taylor Allgood, Student Support Coordinator for The Market at AU. "This support will help to expand The Market's reach on campus and provide essential resources to meet students' basic needs. We also extend our sincerest gratitude to AU fans and alumni whose contributions directly impact the well-being and success of our student community. Together, we are fostering a resilient and equitable campus environment for all Eagles."

Full schedule of events where donations will be collected:
Men's Basketball:  February 1, 10, 15, 22, 26 
Women's Basketball:  February 8, 15, 19
Lacrosse: February 11, 26
Wrestling: February 9, 14