Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
More than 1,000 food and self-care items have been donated through South Texas College’s recently launched Parking Citation Forgiveness Program, transforming parking violations into an opportunity for students to give back to their community.
“We have seen strong participation since the program launched in February, with more than $9,000 in citations waived,” said STC Parking, Security and Transportation Services Director Cindy Zavala. “We know our students have financial needs, so this initiative allows us to hold them accountable while also giving them a chance to resolve their citations at a lower cost and support others at the same time.”
Under the program, a parking citation, which starts at $30 and increases with multiple infractions, can be waived by donating seven qualifying items per citation. According to Zavala, the cost of those items is significantly lower than the citation itself.
“The citation amount varies depending on the infraction, such as not having a parking permit, failing to display it properly or parking in restricted areas like handicap or visitor spaces,” she said. “However, those who receive a citation have a one-time opportunity to participate in the program. We did the math and found that the cost of the required items is considerably lower than paying the citation.”
The initiative directly impacts STC students through the college’s Food Pantry and Jaguar Self-Care Den, a student-focused resource supported by Phi Theta Kappa that provides essential hygiene and grooming items to students in need.
“The most we’ve seen is six citations, which equals 42 items,” Zavala said. “Even then, participants are still saving a significant amount of money, and some choose to donate extra items beyond what’s required.”
Food donations range from canned proteins such as tuna, chicken and sardines to ready-to-eat options like instant rice cups, noodle soups and canned meals. Pantry staples, including beans, vegetables, pasta and sauces, are also accepted. In addition, hygiene and self-care products such as toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, laundry supplies and feminine hygiene items are accepted.
“We’re truly grateful for this initiative because these resources are making a difference for so many students, and they have helped expand what we currently offer,” said STC Student Activities and Wellness Director Elibariki V. Nguma. “The items have been going quickly, and students have really appreciated the variety.”
Since its launch, the program has continued to evolve to better meet student needs. Recently updated donation guidelines placed greater emphasis on ready-to-eat items. The revisions also expand personal care options, including laundry detergent and dryer sheets.
“It has been a great collaboration, and we’re truly happy to take part in our caring campus community,” Zavala said. “Not only are we offering a more affordable option for resolving citations, but we are also directly helping those who need these items.”
Students interested in participating can visit southtexascollege.edu/stcdps/citation-forgiveness.html and contact campus parking services at the Parking Office on Pecan Plaza to determine eligibility and schedule a time to turn in their donations.
To learn more about the STC Food Pantry and Jaguar Self-Care Den, visit southtexascollege.edu/life/food-pantry.html.
Information source: STC
