James Madison University will host a food drive this fall in memory of Ben Delp, a former student and employee, who passed away suddenly in September.
The drive will run through Nov. 20 with donation sites located around the JMU campus.
Delp earned his bachelor’s degree (2005) and master’s degree (2008) from JMU. Delp was an employee of JMU for two decades. He served as the director of federal relations and communications for the Research, Economic Development and Innovation department, or REDI.
He was also a steward of charitable community work, leading an annual food drive and serving on the Walk to End Alzheimer’s planning committee.
Donations will go to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank which serves more than 170,000 people each month. While at JMU, food drives organized by Delp brought in more than 22,000 pounds of food and raised $13,602 in donations.
ICYMI
- Blue Ridge Area Food Bank providing free afterschool meals in Valley, Central Virginia
- Blue Ridge Area Food Bank’s new CEO brings 25+ years in nonprofit leadership
- Cost of groceries stressing out Americans; federal cuts, tariffs likely to exacerbate issue
- Waynesboro: Food pantry says clients ‘have no idea’ of pending federal cuts
The donations will be presented to the BRAFB on Friday, Nov. 21. Monetary donations may also be made online.
A memorial scholarship was also established at JMU by his family.
Suggested donations
No glass containers.
- Cereal
- Oatmeal
- Nut butter
- Canned tuna and chicken
- Canned soups, stews and chili
- Canned veggies and fruits
- Beans (all varieties)
- Boxed mac and cheese
- Spaghetti sauce and canned tomatoes
- Pasta and rice
- Paper towels and toilet paper
- Cooking oils
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Baby food and formula
- Diapers and wipes
- Soap, deodorant and feminine products
Donation sites at JMU
- 220 University Blvd./Small Business Development Center
- Campbell/IIHHS
- EnGeo
- Foundation Hall
- Health and Behavioral Studies
- Ice House
- Jemmy’s Corner
- King Hall
- Leeolou Hall
- Massanutten Hall
- Memorial Hall
- Mr. Chips
- Rose Library
- Sonner Hall
- Student Success Center
- Taylor Hall
Share
Crystal Graham
