Some of our Spartan students are in need, and here’s a simple way that we can help. As part of the Division of Student Affairs “Spartan Essentials” initiative to address food insecurity, Spartans – faculty, staff, and students – are encouraged to donate one of their dining plan meals to a student in need with a simple swipe of their SpartanCard on Wednesday, Sept. 11. Visit Fountain View dining hall between 7 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. to participate.
Food security among college students is a national issue – 36% of students were food insecure last year, as reported by the Wisconsin Hope Lab. According to a 2017 UNCG food insecurity survey, 35% of students skipped a meal because they did not have enough money to buy food.
“Food insecurity is an issue impacting college students nationally and on our own campus. We know it can impact a student’s ability to reach their goals. For a student who is struggling with resources, they may have to choose between buying a book for class, or having sufficient food. As the University continues to explore ways to address the issue, this event provides students the opportunity to contribute to our culture of care by supporting fellow Spartans,” says Cathy Akens, vice chancellor of student affairs.
The Spartan Open Pantry (SOP) serves the campus community as the primary food pantry for students in need. Visits by students to the SOP increased 28% between fall 2018 and spring semester 2019.
In addition to the SOP, the Dean of Students Office provides emergency meals for students. Meal donations on Sept. 11 will enable Spartan Dining to establish a donated meals bank from which the Dean of Students staff can distribute to students in need and further support our Culture of Care.
For more information on Spartan Open Pantry see https://sa.uncg.edu/sop-spartan-open-pantry/
