The Siena Men’s and Women’s Basketball programs are joining forces with the Regional Food Bank to address food insecurity in the Capital Region through their annual food drives. Fans attending two upcoming home games are encouraged to contribute by donating five canned goods to support this initiative.
On January 9, 2025, the Siena Men will face off against the Merrimack Warriors at 7 p.m. at MVP Arena. The Women’s team will compete on January 10, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the UHY Center on the Loudonville Campus. In appreciation of their donations, fans will receive a voucher for $5 off a ticket to a future Siena Men’s or Women’s regular season game for the 2025-26 season, subject to availability while supplies last. Cash donations will also be accepted.
“We value the opportunity to make a difference throughout the Capital Region by assisting our friends at the Regional Food Bank,” stated John D’Argenio, Vice President and Director of Athletics at Siena University. He emphasized the community spirit of Siena fans, who consistently demonstrate Franciscan values through their service and support of the Regional Food Bank’s mission.
The Regional Food Bank will collect donations, including canned goods and personal hygiene products, during the games until the start of the second half. Collection points will be set up in the MVP lobby atrium, on the concourse between sections 104 and 105, and in the lobby of the UHY Center.
The organization is prioritizing donations of healthy staples such as soup, cereal, oatmeal, and 100% juice. They are also focusing on personal hygiene items like shampoo, soap, deodorant, and bathroom tissue, as well as culturally responsive foods including beans, rice, and masa flour. Additionally, fans can contribute monetarily through Venmo, with every dollar raised providing four meals to individuals in need across 23 counties in Northeastern New York.
“We are excited to partner with Siena Athletics, a relationship which has always been pivotal in our fight against hunger within the community,” said Tom Nardacci, CEO of the Regional Food Bank. He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from Siena University, including athletes, coaches, and the Saints’ fanbase, as they work together to assist local residents facing food insecurity.
Founded in 1982, the Regional Food Bank is a recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger in local communities. The food bank collects donated goods from various sectors and distributes them to nearly 1,000 charitable agencies serving the hungry across 23 counties in Northeastern New York. As a member of Feeding America, the national network of food banks, the organization continues its mission to combat food insecurity.
For more information on how to get involved or to learn more about the Regional Food Bank, visit their website at regionalfoodbank.net.
