Elmhurst University’s Psychology Club hosts a food drive for York Township

From Feb. 20 to March 14, Elmhurst University’s Psychology Club collected seven boxes full of food, toiletries, and paper products to be delivered to The York Township Food Pantry.

The event was organized by EU sophomore and the Psychology Club’s Vice President, Nicoletta Boik.

Nicoletta Boik and York Township Supervisor John W. Valle pose for a photo with the donations, PHOTO PROVIDED BY Nicoletta Boik.

“The Psychology Club wanted to give back to its community,” said Boik in an email to The Leader, “During the post-COVID times, it has become difficult for individuals to afford necessities such as toiletries.”

“With the assistance of the Elmhurst University student and faculty donations, we were able to provide toiletries and food to York Township, which services the cities of Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard, Oakbrook Terrace, Oak Brook; and parts of Glen Ellyn, Westmont, and Hinsdale,” Boik continued.

Boik discussed how the donations provided by the EU community exceeded their expectations.

“Genuinely, we did not have any expectations for the donation drive as even a small amount can make a huge difference,” said Boik. “The donations exceeded our expectations as we collected a total of seven boxes, each measuring 24” x 18” x 12.”

York Township Supervisor John W. Valle was grateful for the donations that the Psychology Club provided.

“With rising food costs, it has been especially tough for many families to keep food on their table,” said Valle. “Partnerships like this are vital to the work we do in trying to move the needle on hunger in York Township.”

As a student double majoring in nursing and psychology, Boik mentioned events like this have positive physical and mental effects.

“The act of giving activates the portions of the brain related to trust and relationships with others,” said Boik. “We secrete the ‘feel good’ chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin which is referred to as the ‘helpers high’.”

“The act of giving back to the community will enrich one’s life, familiarize one with their community and connect you with individuals that will positively impact one’s perspective for the rest of their life,” she continued. 

The Psychology Club plans to continue giving back and has three donation drives for The York Township Food Pantry, the Ronald McDonald House, and the Helping Hands Homeless Foundation planned for Fall 2023.

“Upon completion of our college journey, members of Psychology Club intend to continue serving their community with similar donation events,” said Boik.