FOOD DRIVE 2025 

16,369 lbs. or 7,425 kg. of Food

During 2025 Argentina, India, Korea, and the United States (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Kansas, Nevada, and Texas) all gave back to their communities.  In total they provided 8,662 well-balanced hot meals and 17,500 snacks to those less fortunate.  These schools/organizations also contributed an additional 16,374 lbs. or 7,427 kg. of food.  Clothing, jackets, sweaters, and blankets were also donated.  Some participated in toy contributions and distributions during various holiday events. Others provided recreational and sports activities to children receiving services through different foundations.  Financial donations equaling $410.28 USD were given to charities.  The communities receiving the donations included but were not limited to: Children’s Foundations, Churches, Hospitals, Food Banks, and Senior living facilities. 

As more schools and countries become involved in the ITF program for giving back to our communities it is becoming apparent that the drive, while always emphasizing helping to feed those in need, is also about meeting the specific needs of our individual communities.  

By acknowledging and demonstrating how we as the ITF continue to give back to our communities, we show that the ITF is not about any one country, school or individual.  It is what we as the ITF can do when we come together.  Even the smallest contribution makes an incredible difference to the individuals we serve as well as the assistance to building the collective.  As the program continues to evolve it is becoming more about serving our communities over time.  

Some schools have begun collecting and giving back in various ways throughout the year and are keeping records and reporting totals to show this is not something that just happens occasionally.   Giving back speaks to the spirit of our ITF and its commitment to building a more peaceful world. 

We would like to encourage all countries and schools to take part in the Giving Back Campaign in 2026 by documenting and recording how they are supporting their communities and helping to provide for those in need.  In December of 2026 we will again ask for schools to submit a report detailing their contributions.  We are the ITF and as our President and his father both said, “By contributing...to the community, especially to the poor or disabled, the student learns charity, humility, comradeship, tolerance, and a sense of generosity.”  This is a valuable lesson which we must be teaching our members.  It is the instructor’s job to demonstrate, promote and teach this.  

A very special thank you goes out to all members who participated in 2025.