Food for fines: Turn CMU parking tickets into a good deed

Central Michigan University is offering a unique opportunity for drivers to resolve parking fines while supporting those in need. The university’s “Food for Fines” initiative allows individuals to pay off certain parking tickets by donating non-perishable food items.

How the Program Works

During the designated campaign period, anyone with an unpaid parking citation issued by CMU’s Parking Services can participate. Instead of paying the usual monetary penalty, participants may bring approved food donations to the Parking Services office. Each eligible donation will count toward the reduction or elimination of specific fines.

Eligible Citations

• Only non-criminal parking violations are eligible for the program.
• Tickets for offenses such as expired meters, improper parking, or failure to display a permit can be resolved through donations.
• Serious violations, including those involving fire lanes or accessible parking spaces, are excluded from this offer.

Donation Guidelines

To ensure that all contributions are helpful and safe, the program accepts only unopened, non-perishable food items. Preferred donations include:

• Canned vegetables and fruits
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Boxed pasta and rice
• Breakfast cereals
• Soup and canned meat

Items must not be expired or damaged. Glass containers and perishable foods are not accepted.

Supporting the Community

All food collected through the initiative will be distributed to local food pantries and organizations that assist students and families experiencing food insecurity. The program aims to turn a routine penalty into an opportunity for positive impact within the community.

How to Participate

1. Check your parking citation to confirm eligibility for the program.
2. Gather the required number of approved food items as specified by Parking Services.
3. Bring your donations, along with your citation, to the Parking Services office during business hours.
4. Staff will verify your items and process the citation accordingly.

Program Dates and Details

The “Food for Fines” campaign runs for a limited time each semester. For current dates, a full list of accepted items, and additional details, visit the official CMU Parking Services website or call their office directly.

By participating, individuals can resolve minor parking violations while making a meaningful contribution to those facing food insecurity in the community.