ORLANDO, Fla. -- The Miami University RedHawks have been in Orlando, Fla., prepping to take on the Appalachian State Mountaineers in the Avocados from Mexico Cure Bowl on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023. However, the players didn't limit their preparations to the gridiron; they traded their helmets for hair nets and volunteered their time on Friday afternoon to help pack 20,000 meals as part of the U.S. Hunger Project.
When asked about today's community service event, Reid Holskey, an offensive lineman from Pataskala, Ohio, expressed, "It's a good feeling to give back. Everything that has been done for us at this bowl, it's great to give back and help those in need."
The RedHawks charitable work was cheered on by the Miami University cheerleaders and Swoop, the RedHawks mascot.
Miami's coaching staff has infused the student-athletes with a commitment and passion to give back to the community and individuals in need. This opportunity develops a foundation for a lifelong commitment to volunteerism.
Holskey further explained the team's mission of helping others:
"We are willing to do things for people who are in need - we are willing to give our time to people who deserve it."
The U.S. Hunger Project will distribute the meals packed by the RedHawks to families throughout Central Florida.
Miami University estimates that 3,936 students have contributed over 31,649 hours of service and volunteer work during the 2022-2023 academic year. Today's service project in Orlando is just one of many service-oriented projects for Miami students.
