Nova Southeastern University strives to implement new and innovative ways to help spread awareness and provide resources for all students. When it comes to students dealing with possible food insecurity, NSU wanted there to be a space for students to retrieve food donations and make students feel comfortable in their nutritional needs while earning their degree. This is why the NSU Pantry was established this semester.
The pantry was created from a collaboration between the Undergraduate Student Government Association, USDA and the College of Osteopathic Medicine. The pantry operates from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is located in the Don Taft University Center on the second floor, south side concession stand. The purpose of the pantry is to help aid students who do not have the resources and to create a welcoming environment.
The food pantry is available for all students to use and consists of donations from the student body. Many donations have come from canned food drives. The latest canned food drive was hosted by Greek life during the month of January. All greek organizations worked together for their Greek week and donated over 2400 cans.
Emily Kolankiewicz, president of USGA, said the majority of our student body have longed for a pantry to be founded for a while now.
“So, it’s an idea that students have had for a really long time. We had the initial idea a couple years ago. Senators drafted up legislation and then from there we worked together to find a space and they’ve been working to staff it and make sure everything is good on that end,” said Kolankiewicz.
The planning process allowed student leaders to speak for the general public and help establish the pantry entirely.
“Students identified that there were some students on campus that were experiencing food insecurity and maybe didn’t have the resources to go to some community resources or shelters. We wanted to make sure that there were resources available for students to utilize so not only food products, but also, we’re hoping to make sure that there are things like hygienic products, toiletries, things of that nature as well,” said Kolankiewicz.
This has been a long-planned goal that has finally come to fruition, and now all students have a place to access daily necessities without judgement. It is a place for all students to attain daily necessities that may be unreachable for some. Together as a student-body there has been initiated action and the creation of a place full of advancement and inclusivity.
The pantry works to help all students and the only requirement is students must present their SharkCard. There is also a contact email foodpantry@nova.edu for any questions or for any collaboration opportunities.
