CEDAR CITY — The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, hosted by Southern Utah University, announced the launch of ‘Summer Games Serves’ for the upcoming 2024 competitions.
According to the news release, the new initiative aims to support both the SUU campus and Iron County communities with a goal of raising funds for the SUU HOPE Pantry and collecting donated items for the Iron County School District Foundation at the ‘State Bank of Southern Utah VIP Reception’.
“The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games were built on pillars that included teamwork and a love of community,” said Jon Oglesby, Executive Director of the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. “Of all the contests that will take place in Cedar City this summer, there is no foe that needs to be defeated more in our community than food insecurity and material need. We are excited to welcome Summer Games participants to join our team in making a positive difference on our campus and in our community.”
‘Summer Games Serves’ aims to raise $10,000 for the SUU HOPE Pantry, which provides food and essential items to SUU students and community members in need, the announcement stated.
During the 2023-24 academic year, the pantry saw a 72% increase in demand, with 49% of SUU students reporting some level of food insecurity. The projected expenses for the 2024-25 academic year are projected at $5,000 per month, excluding materials donated by generous supporters.
The ‘Summer Games Serves’ fundraiser seeks to cover two months of these operational costs should the funding goal be achieved.
“The Pantry is a labor of love, from its initial inception when students and staff from a variety of backgrounds came together to see what could be done,” said Pam Branin, Director of the Community Engagement Center at Southern Utah University. “The Pantry really reflects what happens when people work together to help each other, and our students are so appreciative.”
Those who wish to contribute can donate online at the Summer Games Serves website. Donations will also be accepted at the ‘State Bank of Southern Utah Pancake Breakfast’ on June 8, near the 5K/10K finish line outside the SUU P.E. Building.
To purchase tickets to the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games Opening Ceremony, presented by State Bank of Southern Utah, visit TBirdTickets.com. For more information on the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, visit UtahSummerGames.org.
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