One downside of this year’s “CANpaign” was the target of 8,000 pounds of food – the amount distributed in one week at CSU’s food pantry. While C.A.N.S. did not reach the goal — due to the limitations of in-person activity during COVID-19 — Stephens said that every $800 raised after reaching the $34,000 fundraising goal added what would equate to another week’s worth of food distribution at CSU’s Food Pantry in Lory Student Center.

“Though we did not reach our 8,000 pounds of food goal via food donations, we sure are appreciative of the 61 in-person donations of nutritious foods,” she said. “And, with more than $71,000 raised — about 46 weeks of food distribution could technically be covered at CSU’s ‘not-so’ Mobile Food Pantry.”

Stephens was quick to note that not all of the money goes to the CSU Food Pantry, which operates Wednesday through Friday each week. It is distributed throughout Larimer County and the Food Bank for Larimer County’s other food share programs – including other food pantries, mobile pantries, pop-up pantries, and programs to serve meals to local seniors and children. She explained that she used the representation to better conceptualize the impact of the fundraising dollars.

“C.A.N.S. 2020 was the most special one for me yet, and I’m a double alumna of CSU, and have seen 13 versions of it,” she said.  “‘Rams Take Care of Rams’ was in full-force, and I couldn’t be prouder of our Ramily and am so grateful for our Fort Collins neighbors who CANtributed.”

Stephens added that this virtual, remote, and physically distanced rendition of C.A.N.S. still allowed people to engage in a school tradition, positively impact their community, feel connected to something greater, and gain a more holistic understanding of hunger-relief resources.

“A final and giant thank you to all who supported C.A.N.S. 2020,” Stephens said. “We’ll see you next year for the 35^th annual C.A.N.S. Around The Oval – when we’re hopefully able to be physically together, again.”