Technology, generosity, and smiles for those in need

The Christmas Food Drive and the parallel activities “Christmas with Mixed Reality,” organized by the IEEE Student Branch University of Ioannina | Arta and the Epirus XR Center, in collaboration with the Municipality of Arta, were completed with great success.

The food drive took place from December 9 to 19, 2025, with the aim of providing practical support to families in need in the area. During this period, long-life food, basic necessities, baby products, and festive goods were collected, thanks to the heartwarming response of students, members of the university community, and citizens of Arta.

At the same time, on December 17 and 18, 2025, the public had the opportunity to participate in the “Christmas with Mixed Reality” event at the Christmas Village of the Municipality of Arta in Agios Dimitrios. Young and old alike got to experience Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications, digital games, and interactive educational experiences in a warm, festive atmosphere.

The great response from the public led to the event being extended for additional days (December 19-21, 2025), giving even more visitors the opportunity to participate in both the technological experiences and the food drive. In total, over 350 visitors passed through the Christmas Village and tried out the Christmas VR & AR applications, actively participating in a unique experience of technology and entertainment. This initiative demonstrated in practice how innovation and education can be effectively combined with social contribution..

The initiative concluded today with the delivery of all the food collected to the Social Grocery Store of the Municipality of Arta, in the presence of Deputy Mayor Mr. Charalambos. The items will be distributed to socially vulnerable families in the area, effectively enhancing their festive table.

These actions proved that giving does not have to be complicated; a simple act of solidarity is enough to convey the true message of Christmas: caring for our fellow human beings.

When technology, knowledge, and social awareness come together, they can create initiatives with a meaningful and lasting impact on the local community.

EpirusXRCenter and IEEE Student Branch UOI | Arta continue to invest in actions that combine knowledge and technology with social contribution, strengthening the spirit of solidarity, especially during the Christmas season.

Because giving is not just an act  it is a way of life. 🎄✨