Wright State Police Department delivers major donation to Raider Food Pantry

Wright State University police officers rolled up to the Student Union on Nov. 25 with cruisers packed full of groceries for the Raider Food Pantry, delivering $2,000 worth of soup, cereal, peanut butter crackers, bottled water and other essentials purchased during their annual No-Shave November fundraiser.

For the seventh consecutive year, the Wright State University Police Department used the No-Shave November campaign to support students facing food insecurity.

Every officer and staff member donated $100 for the opportunity to grow their facial hair, wear colorful hair accessories or paint their nails throughout November.

“Every year seems to get bigger and better,” said Kurt Holden, chief of police and director of public safety at Wright State. “It’s for a really good cause.”

Capt. Chad Oleyar was voted as the staff member with the best-looking beard by his colleagues.

Oleyar said the department is proud to help ensure students have access to food when they need it.

“We really enjoy this every year,” said Oleyar.

Police Officer Gianni Parise, left, and Capt. Chad Oleyar stacking donated food items in the Raider Food Pantry.

Over the past seven years, the Police Department has donated more than $18,000 in groceries and money to the Raider Food Pantry.

Eric Corbitt, dean of students, said 40% of Wright State students experience food insecurity, making campus partnerships essential.

“Raiders show up and the Police Department have shown up time and time again for our students,” said Corbitt.

The Wright State Raider Food Pantry provides emergency food assistance to any student enrolled in classes for the current term. Students can schedule an appointment online to pick up food.