The third annual “Helping Hams” drive was launched on Thursday at the Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market.

The market, is a student-operated farmers market coordinated by the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

Sandra Witte, interim dean for the college, said the launch of the campaign was appropriate because the entire campus was engaged in the second annual National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Feed.

“Here in Fresno County, one in four [people] are hungry or at risk for hunger,” Witte said. “That’s just not acceptable. Here we are, right in the center of the biggest agricultural industry in the nation.”

The Helping Hams campaign raises money to donate student-produced hams to charities affiliated with Fresno State.

Witte said the hams are processed by Fresno State students in the meat science program of the college and that they are delicious.

The Helping Hams campaign is accepting donations in $5 increments. Six donations, or $30, is enough money to buy a ham.

Associated Students Inc. president Abigail Hudson said she was excited to be a part of the campaign and encouraged students to donate. Hudson said that ASI had offered to pay for a kid’s scoop of ice cream for students who donate at least $5.

“We all know it’s tough during our years in college to kind of get by, but we know that we are very fortunate to be here in the first place and we can definitely help those that are in need,” Hudson said.

“Fresno State students, faculty and staff and our alumni and friends are very caring individuals,” Fresno State President Dr. Joseph Castro said. ­“I’m glad to join today in this effort to provide hams to those who cannot purchase them themselves.”

Last year, the Helping Hams drive was able to donate 159 hams in a month. This year it is trying to donate 175 hams in two weeks.

“Fresno State and the Jordan college has a long history of doing its part to take care of the community and take care of the region,” Witte said.

Castro and other members of his cabinet kicked off the Helping Hams drive by purchasing hams to donate.

The Helping Hams campaign will continue until Dec. 4.