KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee basketball's Jahmai Mashack is organizing a virtual food drive with Second Harvest Food Bank this holiday season.
The senior guard posted on social media he wanted to feed 100 families from East Tennessee. Before his post on X blew up across Vol Nation, he had a smaller goal in mind.
"Vol Nation! Giving back has always been a priority for my family and me," said Mashack. "I challenge you, if it's in your heart, to help me feed 30 families this Thanksgiving. Let's team up on a virtual food drive & I'll start it off!"
Mashack left his phone for about three and a half hours during shoot-around practice and was shocked to find that the original goal of feeding 30 families had already been raised when he returned.
"Can't believe the goal was met by the time I got back," said Mashack. "VolNation comes through every time! You can still give! Doesn't matter if it's the full meal or just a side. Everything is appreciated! $6,700 feeds 100 families!"
Mashack's mother, Meika Mashack, says the family has always loved giving back in their hometown of Fontana, California.
"He has always had a passion for giving," said Meika Mashack. "We would travel to Skid Row regularly to feed those in need. Although being a student-athlete is the priority and extremely taxing, he just wants to make sure he doesn't lose sight of the bigger picture."
She also mentioned Mahsack has worked with Second Harvest for years while playing for the Vols.
"They provide food to anyone who needs it without judgment or qualifications. That stuck out to him and he's been helping them since," said Meika Mashack.
Mashack's virtual food drive runs through December 5, and 63% of his fundraiser goal has already been met. You can click this link to help Mashack reach his goal for people in need this holiday season.
