Food insecurity is a pressing issue for many students nationwide. Their busy lives and limited work hours make it tough to cover basic needs. For instance, at Southern Oregon University (SOU), students can only work up to 20 hours per week on campus, which complicates their ability to earn enough money. Outside jobs can be tricky to secure due to scheduling conflicts and a tough job market. As a result, getting enough food is often a struggle.
To help, SOU offers a Food Pantry on the third floor of Stevenson Union. This resource is not widely known, but it provides students a chance to take up to ten non-perishable items and some fresh produce each week—regardless of their financial situation. Students can visit Monday through Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. to grab the food they need.
The pantry also offers personal hygiene products, and students can take as many as they like. For updates, the Food Pantry can be found on Instagram at @sou_foodpantry, and @soustudentlife shares information about operations.
Recently, the Food Pantry has partnered with a local farm to provide fresh produce. In the upcoming school year, the Associated Students of Southern Oregon University (ASSOU) plans to enhance the pantry’s reach and quality significantly. Tiana Gilliland, the ASSOU Student President, has formed a task force dedicated to improving food access. Sha Pettit, a member of that task force, expressed optimism but also identified areas for improvement.
“The excitement around promoting the Food Pantry is encouraging,” Sha shared. “However, we need more effective ways to reach students and let them know what we offer.”
ASSOU and the Food Pantry are tackling challenges such as funding. Julie Nordin, the Pantry Coordinator, mentioned that a low purchasing fund limits their ability to stock a variety of dietary options, and inconsistent donations make maintaining supplies difficult. Additionally, the current operating hours can exclude students who need access later in the day.
“As we work to improve, we’re aware that some visitors face challenges due to dietary restrictions and allergies,” Sha noted. “This can make it tough for them to find what they need.”
The Food Pantry is always in need of donations, whether food, hygiene products, or monetary contributions. Donations can be dropped off in SU 312, and for any questions, students can reach the pantry via email at foodpantry@sou.edu.
Interestingly, food insecurity among college students is not a new problem. A report from the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice states that around 39% of college students experience food insecurity at some point during their studies. This highlights a critical need for better support systems on campuses nationwide.
In conclusion, the Food Pantry at SOU is a valuable resource for students struggling with food access. By enhancing its offerings and raising awareness, the university community can work together to ensure that all students have the food they need to support their education and well-being.
Check out this related article: Texas Food Banks Rally for ‘Food is Medicine’ Bill to Boost Food Security and Nourish Communities
Source link