Inside Sorin Hall, a small table and fridge offer 24/7 access to food for Hamline students. This initiative, called Feed Your Brain (FYB), was created by students to combat food insecurity on campus. Since the Food Resource Center isn’t open all the time, FYB saw the need for a round-the-clock solution.
“During our discussions, we realized Hamline needed a place where students could grab food at any hour,” said FYB officer Kaitlynn Fuller. They chose Sorin Hall because it’s open all day and night. With support from Public Safety Director Illiana Cantu Delgado, they purchased a fridge and table using their budget.
The response has been incredible. “We stock up frequently, and the food disappears in days!” said a senior FYB officer. The excitement around this initiative has caught the attention of students and staff alike. “Once they refill the table, it goes quickly!” noted junior Maggie Paoli.
However, keeping the fridge stocked is a challenge. FYB faces budget constraints and limited volunteer availability, making it tough to provide food consistently. “We want to keep it filled, but it’s been a challenge,” said FYB member Maroney. Even with a dedicated team of four, maintaining the station can be tough.
They plan to do another grocery run before the semester ends. To improve efficiency, FYB is exploring options like sign-ups for volunteers to help with food runs and a system to notify students when the fridge is restocked. “We’re also hoping to get a shelf from the Food Resource Center to expand our offerings,” Fuller added.
Yet growth doesn’t come without its hurdles. The team is actively seeking more volunteers to help keep the station stocked. “Anyone interested in making grocery runs, donating food, or checking in on the station is welcome to help,” she said.
A recent study by the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice found that nearly 39% of college students experience food insecurity. This highlights the importance of initiatives like FYB. A QR code at the table offers a way for students to provide feedback to help improve the service.
The FYB team is excited about their progress and future developments. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to enhance this vital resource,” said Fuller. By fostering a supportive community, FYB hopes to continue making a significant impact on student life at Hamline.
For more information on food insecurity among students, you can refer to the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice.
Check out this related article: How Du-par’s Restaurant Sparked My Love for Food and Left a Memorable Legacy
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