Northern Michigan University will embark on its fourth “Food for Fines” donation event, in which students who help those in need by contributing items to the NMU Food Pantry can alleviate their parking fines.
Donations will be accepted Nov. 8-12 and Tuesday, Nov. 30 (NMU Day of Giving) at NMU Parking Services in the Services Building. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Citations must be dated Aug. 1, 2021 or later to qualify for the program.
One full paper grocery bag of donations reduces a parking citation by $10 and two bags reduce the citation by $25 or excuses it entirely. Only one parking citation per person may be excused during the event.
Typically, about 1,000 pounds of food are collected and $3,000-$3,500 in fines are forgiven. Donations are welcome from people who don't have parking citations as well.
Those who donate will also be eligible for two prize drawings: a free parking permit, or reimbursement for one already purchased; and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card. For more information, contact Parking Services at (906) 227-1476 or email at parking@nmu.edu.
Recommended items include the following:
Cereal
Canned Fruit and Vegetables
Granola Bars
Chunky Soups
Ravioli
Pancake Mix and Syrup
Oatmeal
Laundry Detergent
Deodorant
Paper Towels
Toilet Paper
Shampoo
Toothpaste
Bodywash