Gavilan College has taken a big step to help students in need by opening a food pantry on its Hollister campus. The pantry had its grand opening on February 25.
This initiative is a partnership between Gavilan College and the Community FoodBank of San Benito. Annette Gutierrez, the director of basic needs and success at Gavilan, collaborated with Fatima Vazquez from the FoodBank to make this pantry happen.
The pantry is part of a larger effort to support students facing challenges. Eligible students can receive $150 each month for meals at the college cafe. Additionally, mini-grants of $200 are available once a semester to help with transportation and hygiene products. According to Gutierrez, these resources can significantly uplift the students’ academic journeys.
“This is more than just a food source,” Gutierrez explains. “It’s a place where students can connect and discover other support programs.” This month alone, over 200 students utilized the pantry.
Food insecurity is a pressing issue for many college students, both locally and across California. Guillermo Rodriguez, executive director of the Community FoodBank, highlights that over 70% of college students in the state face food insecurity, with one in four residents in San Benito County struggling with hunger.
While the pantry primarily serves students, it’s also open to faculty and community members. Rodriguez aims to foster an environment where students can receive help while maintaining their dignity.
“This is a significant moment for our students and the community,” he added.
A standout feature of the pantry is the shopping experience it offers. Rather than receiving pre-packaged boxes of food, students can choose what they need, reducing waste and allowing for choice.
“We aim to provide essential nutrition,” he said. “It’s a small initiative, but it has a strong impact.”
The pantry offers various staples, including rice, beans, pasta, sauces, fresh vegetables, and hygiene kits. Freshman Dee Sloma shared her appreciation for the pantry, noting its importance in making meals affordable and nutritious. “Being able to eat well helps us focus on our studies,” she emphasized.
Rachel Perez, a trustee at Gavilan College, reiterated the crucial role of food pantries. “Helping students access food is essential. Everyone deserves to eat well.”
Gavilan College President Dr. Pedro Avila expressed his pride in providing such valuable resources to the community. “It warms my heart to know we help our students avoid hunger,” he said, stressing the importance of collective support for student success.
If you’re in need of the pantry, it’s located at the front of the Gavilan College Hollister campus at 505 Fairview, open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (closed from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.). For more information, you can reach out via email.
In addition to the pantry, here are other resources in San Benito County:
- San Benito Food Bank
Location: 1133 San Felipe Road
Phone: 831-637-0340
Services: Food distribution for low-income residents. - Community Food Bank
Location: 1133 San Felipe Road
Phone: 831-637-0340
Services: Food pantry support for low-income residents. - Salvation Army
Location: 910 Buena Vista Road
Phone: 831-636-9832
Services: Emergency food assistance and support services. - Youth Alliance
Location: 310 4th St., Suite 101, Hollister, CA
Phone: 831-537-3620
Services: Provides food support for youth and families in need.
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