11.3.25

Dear Colleagues:

As the State and University Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) campaign draws to a close on Nov. 12, I’d like to remind you about the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families in need.

While there are several worthy causes you can support through SECA, food pantries in our area are facing a significant surge in demand, especially as the continuation of SNAP benefits is uncertain.

Two options directly addressing food insecurity in the central Illinois area are available:

• Central Illinois Food Bank: Your donation to this local organization will help meet the growing demand for food assistance in central Illinois. Donations to the Central Illinois Food Bank and other SECA charities can be made on our SECA website.

• Food Insecurity Fund: One-time donations to this fund will be directed to food pantries based on the donor’s ZIP code. For more information and to donate, visit the United Way of Central Illinois' website.

Additionally, the popular SECA silent basket auction is live and will close at 5 p.m. Friday.

Thank you to the many of you who already have contributed to SECA and for considering these additional opportunities to give back and support those in need in our local community and beyond.

Janet

Janet L. Gooch, Ph.D.
Chancellor
University of Illinois Springfield