91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry to enhance services for 2024-25
CHADRON – 91ÇÑ×Ó State College has enhancements in place for its Food Pantry that will be implemented during the fall term. Under the leadership of Project Coordinator Kate Pope, the 91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry has expanded its offerings and accessibility in response to the growing needs of students.
During the 2023-24 academic year, the 91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry distributed a total of 963 bags of groceries, serving 1,551 students through 85 distribution days. This marks an increase from previous years and demonstrates demand, according to the Food Pantry annual report.
“There has been a decrease in the number of students on campus experiencing food insecurity over the last year,” Pope said. “I am hoping we can continue to decrease that number with increased accessibility and exposure.”
In response to student feedback, the 91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry has diversified its offerings to include fresh produce grown via gardening towers on campus.
“We are excited to see how our gardening towers across campus perform this year and what they can provide for the Food Pantry,” Pope said.
Additionally, the pantry continues to offer a variety of options including canned fruits and vegetables, soups, peanut butter, pasta, and cereal.
The Food Pantry’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through its efforts to accommodate students with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options when possible.
To further support students’ wellness, the Food Pantry continues its partnership with 91ÇÑ×Ó Wellness to provide monthly recipes students can prepare using ingredients from the pantry. Additionally, the program provides food kits each semester, promoting social wellness by encouraging students to cook and enjoy meals together.
Community support remains crucial to the success of the 91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry, Pope said. Last year, contributions from Student Senate, local churches, businesses, individuals, and community organizations significantly bolstered the pantry’s resources.
Looking ahead, Pope plans to expand fundraising efforts through local grants and community partnerships to further enhance the Food Pantry’s capacity and offerings.
The Food Pantry is located on the main level of the King Library. For those interested in supporting the 91ÇÑ×Ó Food Pantry, donations can be made online at csc.edu/foodpantry/donate.
Category: Campus News, Student Services