Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week (H&HAW)

November 15, 2026 - 10:00am to November 21, 2026 - 6:00pm


November 15-21, 2026

Take part in a national movement to confront hunger and homelessness. UC Merced invites you to join a week of action, learning, and community support from November 15–21. Together, we can raise awareness, spark change, and uplift those facing housing and food insecurity.

A Collaboration Between

Why This Matters

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual program bringing together over 700 colleges, high schools, and community groups nationwide to address critical issues facing our communities.

Students Are Affected

Food and housing insecurity affect college students across the country, including right here at UC Merced. Through programs like Basic Needs and Guardian Scholars, we are committed to supporting every Bobcat’s well-being and success.

Your Impact Reaches the Community

By participating, you help strengthen local organizations such as the Merced County Community Action Agency and the D Street Shelter — extending care and resources to those who need it most.

Small Actions Create Big Change

Whether through education, service, or simply showing up, your involvement helps raise awareness and drive meaningful change in our campus and beyond.

Week of Events

Presentations

Monday, Nov 16
Location: Commuter Lounge | 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Join us for our Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week Kickoff!
We will be going over presentations for each department( 5 minutes each).

We look forward to creating, learning, and reflecting together. 

Social Media Campaign |Tenants Rights: Lunch & Learn

Wednesday, Nov 18
Location: Commuter Lounge | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Join us on Instagram!
Follow along on Instagram as we share stories, facts, and ways to get involved during Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week!

We are also going to be sharing details regarding tenant rights. Food will be provided.

Rise Against Hunger

Wednesday, Nov 18
Location: California Room | 11:00AM - 1:00PM

Help send hope farther than you can imagine. Today, children around the world are still waiting for nutritious meals that can help them learn, grow and build brighter futures. Every gift helps fill another box with hope. Every box begins another journey. Every journey begins with someone who chooses to help.

Empty Bowl Project & Trivia

Friday, Nov 19
Multicultural Center | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Join us for an evening of service, learning, and trivia. All painted bowls will be part of a fundraiser benefiting the Merced County Community Action Agency!

Plus earn 1 hour of community service

Campus Garden

Garden Education Workshop & Sweet Potatoes

Eligible for CatLife Hours!

Friday, November 20
Garden | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Get your hands dirty and help grow fresh produce for our community! Join us at the Campus Garden to learn about sustainable food systems and contribute to food security efforts. No experience necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to help!

Orchard Maintenance

Tree Education Workshop

Saturday, November 21
Orchard (North Bowl Lot 2)| 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

The Orchard Maintenance and Tree Education Workshop at UC Merced is a hands-on learning event hosted by the UC Merced Community Campus Garden team. It blends physical volunteer service with introductory horticultural training.

PHS Meeting Flyer

Every Action Makes a Difference

Whether you participate in events, volunteer, or spread awareness, your involvement matters. Join the UC Merced community in supporting those experiencing hunger and homelessness.