Giving Tuesday focus on Replenish will help students thrive in, out of classroom

More than 2,000 students will access food and personal care items through the Replenish Basic Needs Center this year. The Laker community can help students thrive in and out of the classroom by making a donation to the Replenish Student Food Resource Fund on Giving Tuesday.

Grand Valley will once again highlight the fund during Giving Tuesday on December 3, the national philanthropic day of giving after Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Last year, more than $40,000 was raised for the fund.

Lariesha Lee is the assistant director at the Center for Women and Gender Equity. Lee oversees the three Replenish locations and said student demand for items will likely increase this year.

"Many students are juggling financial instability while going to college which can directly impact their health, well-being, and ability to focus on their education," Lee said. "With these challenges, Replenish is critical in fostering food security and helping students thrive."