Monarchs Give Back is a university-wide initiative and community food drive dedicated to combatting food insecurity. Each year students, faculty, staff, and local partners unite to collect essential items for Norfolk Public Schools students in need and the Monarch Pantry serving our own ODU student community. More than just a drive, Monarchs Give Back is a powerful expression of ODU’s commitment to service, civic responsibility, and neighborly compassion. This campaign showcases the collective spirit of the 757—where generosity, partnership, and care for one another are core values that bring us together to uplift those in need.
A Growing Community
Launched in 2021, Monarchs Give Back began as a campus-led food collection and has grown into a region-wide movement of service and solidarity. With the recent integration of EVMS to form the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã University, has only increased in scope. This year—along with sustaining the Monarch Pantry—donations will also support the five in Norfolk further deepening our impact on the communities that need it most.
Why Your Support Matters
Food insecurity affects more than 1 in 7 households in Virginia according to the Federation of Virginia Food Banks—and students are especially vulnerable. Many face the impossible choice between paying for tuition or basic needs like groceries. By supporting Monarchs Give Back, we help close these gaps and ensure that no student or child goes hungry, so they can focus on learning, growing, and thriving.
President's Challenge
This year, we’re raising the bar! Our ambitious goal is to collect 100,000 donations which can include non-perishable items and monetary donations to help support children and families in Norfolk Public Schools and students who rely on ODU’s Monarch Pantry. Every can, every box, and every dollar makes a difference. Help us meet the challenge and show the power of a united Monarch Nation!
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Main operations for the 2025 Monarch Gives Back campaign will be conducted in ODU's Webb University Center. Donations can be dropped off there, as well as at the Innovation Research Park I building on Monarch Way. Bin locations will also be located throughout campus for easy access.
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