Empowering the Whitewater Community: How Royal Purple Delivers Exceptional Care

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is committed to supporting its students and the local community. One standout program is the Warhawk Pantry, which focuses on ensuring food and personal care essentials are available to those in need.

Food insecurity remains a pressing issue across many campuses. A 2018 survey revealed that nearly 50% of students at UW-Whitewater faced some level of food insecurity. According to pantry manager Tonia Kapitan, a group of dedicated volunteers, faculty, and staff started this initiative to tackle the problem head-on.

In the past year, the Warhawk Pantry has seen its usage triple. This increase highlights the growing need for support in the community and reflects a shift in attitudes towards food assistance programs. “We want to create a welcoming environment for students and community members alike,” Kapitan said. “Working with organizations like Feeding America helps us extend our reach and impact.”

Reducing the stigma associated with using a food pantry has been a key focus. More students have begun utilizing the pantry, understanding that it’s a valid way to meet their needs, especially during financially tough times. Using a simple intake form, anyone can declare their need and access resources. This approach ensures that the pantry remains a vital hub for those needing extra support, especially as economic challenges loom large due to factors like the government shutdown and uncertain SNAP benefits.

Recent data shows that food insecurity is not just a campus issue—it affects broader communities as well. According to the Hunger in America report from Feeding America, more than 38 million people in the United States were food insecure in 2021. This number points to a critical need for programs like the Warhawk Pantry, which has launched initiatives such as campus-wide food drives to gather donations. This year, they collected hundreds of pounds of food to support students, especially during the holidays.

As the semester wraps up, the pantry plans to stay open during the winter break to ensure that anyone in need has access to food and personal care items. Whether through donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, community involvement plays a significant role in keeping this service alive.

For those interested in supporting the Warhawk Pantry, it is located in the University Center. The pantry continues to flourish thanks to a dedicated team and a supportive community, proving it’s more than just a place for food—it’s about building a sense of belonging and support among Warhawks.

To learn more about combining efforts to reduce hunger in our communities, you can check the [Feeding America](https://www.feedingamerica.org/) website for resources and ways to get involved.

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donation,Feeding America,Giving,Warhawk Pantry