Several Sacramento State programs are getting into the holiday spirit by sponsoring food and clothing drives for the area?s less fortunate families.

The 27th annual University Holiday Food Drive, sponsored by Sac State Support Services, began Nov. 19 and continues through Dec. 21. The drive provides food and cash donations for area families. Food collection boxes are located throughout the campus, and cash donations can be mailed to University Transportation and Parking Services Manager Nancy Fox at the UTAPS office. Students can drop off donations in any of the bins located in the various halls on their way to class.

The Associated Students, Inc. Sting Team is also supporting a Week of Giving this week. The team is a freshman leadership group consisting of approximately 25 students, said spokeswoman Angela Gomez.

“It?s a good way for the freshmen to get involved through ASI, make friends and get involved in community service,” Gomez said.

In its second year, the event is a week dedicated to giving to the less fortunate through a toy, food and clothing drive. The Sting Team will have tables in the Quad until tomorrow, open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We will be giving away candy canes and accepting all donations,” Gomez said.

The Sting Team will also set up bins in the University Union, Lassen Hall and the ASI Business Office, where students can drop off their donations

A clothing drive is also being put on by the Sac State Housing Office. Unlike the other drives taking place on campus, this one isn?t holiday related, said recycling coordinator Roger Guzowski. Collection bins are placed in the lobby of each campus residence hall at the end of each semester to allow students to donate things they don?t need and are likely to throw out.

“By the time a student leaves their room in the residence hall, they realize they have accumulated a lot of stuff that won?t all fit in their car, and this allows them the opportunity to give to others,” Guzowski said.

The clothing drive was anticipated to start after the Thanksgiving Holiday.