Allen ISD students are uniting for Love Week 2026, a long-standing tradition that blends school spirit with meaningful service. Now in its 45th year, Love Week will take place from February 9 through 13 and will support The Samaritan Inn, a nonprofit housing program that provides shelter, education, and stability to those experiencing homelessness in Collin County.
This year’s district-wide fundraising goal is $15,000. The funds will be used to sponsor a Gateway Apartment for transitional housing, provide ten full meals for residents, and support future expansion projects at the shelter.
Students across all Allen ISD campuses can participate by attending Spirit Nights at local restaurants, donating high-need pantry items, joining in themed dress-up days, and taking part in Dollar Day, a $1 fundraiser on the final day of the week.
Protein Food Drive – February 9–13
Throughout Love Week, every campus in Allen ISD will participate in a district-wide protein food drive to help stock the shelves of The Samaritan Inn’s food pantry. Students and families are encouraged to donate:
Canned tuna
Canned chicken
Peanut butter
Spaghettios
Collection bins will be placed at school entrances across the district. These items directly support meals for families living at The Samaritan Inn and help decrease food insecurity for neighbors in need.
Dollar Day – February 13
On the final day of Love Week, all students across Allen ISD are encouraged to bring $1 or more to school in support of The Samaritan Inn. Every dollar donated helps provide food, shelter, transportation, and counseling services to local individuals and families working to overcome homelessness.
Dollar Day is a simple but powerful way for students of all ages to participate in giving back. By joining together, the community can help The Samaritan Inn continue its mission of providing opportunities for growth, independence, and stability.
Daily Breakdown of Love Week Activities
Monday, February 9 – Sweats Day & Theme: Hope
Students wear cozy clothes to represent comfort and care. The day’s focus is on hope, highlighting how The Samaritan Inn provides services like job training and counseling to help residents believe in themselves again.
Spirit Night: Raising Cane’s, 4–9 PM
Food Drive: Opens district-wide
Tuesday, February 10 – Jersey Day & Theme: Perseverance
Students wear jerseys to represent strength. The Samaritan Inn reports that many residents are already employed but still face housing insecurity. Tuesday’s theme emphasizes the hard work and determination of those rebuilding their lives.
Spirit Night: BJ’s Restaurant, 5:30–9:30 PM
Food Drive: Continues
Wednesday, February 11 – Dynamic Duos Day & Theme: Engagement
Students dress as iconic pairs to show unity and support. The day’s theme encourages students to take active roles through volunteering or spreading awareness.
Spirit Night: Chipotle on McDermott, 4–8 PM
Reminders: Food drive still active; donations needed
Thursday, February 12 – Shades of Love (Red/Pink) & Theme: Heart
Students wear red or pink to celebrate compassion and care. The focus is on how The Samaritan Inn centers dignity and respect in all services provided.
Spirit Night: Chick-fil-A (all Allen locations), all day
Reminders: Final day for food drive donations
Friday, February 13 – Love Your Neighbor Shirt Day & Theme: Opportunity
Students wear official Love Week shirts to close the week in unity. The theme is opportunity, highlighting how residents at The Samaritan Inn gain access to transportation, job readiness programs, and long-term housing.
Spirit Night: Yogurtland, Noon–10 PM
Special Event: Dollar Day — every student in Allen ISD is invited to bring $1
All proceeds from t-shirt sales, food donations, and Spirit Night events will go directly to support programs at The Samaritan Inn. Each day of Love Week is rooted in one of the shelter’s core values: hope, perseverance, engagement, heart, and opportunity. These values are introduced during daily announcements and woven into all student activities throughout the week.
