By Gerrit Goodwin
It is hard to improve in college if students have to worry about hunger or their next meal, which is why Student Ambassadors helped to create a food pantry on NE Campus.
Bogdan Sierra Miranda/The Collegian
“I’ve been working with students to get the pantry open, but really it was the students’ idea and who actively pushed for it,” said Cheryl North, NE sociology instructor and group adviser. “The idea is for the pantry to be by students for students, and we hope that students, organizations and faculty help to keep us supplied.”
The food pantry is meant to be easily accessible, and students who are currently experiencing food insecurity only need to provide a schedule to get supplies, North said.
“Not only will the pantry help students in need, but it will also open several work-study positions and volunteer opportunities for students,” she said.
Manav Lamichhane, a NE student who just began working at the food pantry as a work-study job, said he is still trying to figure out many of the administrative responsibilities.
“Being part of the food pantry makes me feel like I’m helping,” Lamichhane said. “I’m glad to be a part of something that makes a difference for the student body.”
Roberto Aparicio, an officer with the Student Ambassadors, said he hopes to start helping at the pantry as well.
“Until then, the Student Ambassadors will be doing everything we can to help the community and will be promoting the pantry during our meetings,” he said.
The food pantry, which opened Jan. 26, is located in the Communications Arts Building (NCAB 1136) and will be accessible 2-4 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays.
