Contribution will help combat food insecurity among students
Charlotte, N.C. / February 28, 2022 – Johnson C. Smith University received a $50,000 gift from Harris Teeter to support the campus food pantry in tackling food insecurity among students. The gift, which will be spread over five years, is part of Harris Teeter’s commitment to combat foot insecurity at five Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the grocery chain’s market areas.
Golden Bulls General Market, the campus food pantry, has experienced an increase in the need for services since the start of the pandemic in 2020, said Dr. Davida Haywood, vice president for Student Affairs.
“We are extremely grateful for the multi-year donation of $50,000 provided by Harris Teeter, to support our Golden Bulls General Market,” said Haywood. “Food insecurity remains a concern of ours, especially as we continue to understand the impact of COVID-19 and the disruptions it caused to the daily routines of our students.”
Haywood said the donation from Harris Teeter will help the pantry increase capacity. “It is good to know that a community partner like Harris Teeter recognizes the need and joins us in our efforts to provide a safe space on campus where students can come to not only receive non-perishable, perishable and personal care items, but also a sense of support and encouragement,” she stated. “Being able to utilize $10,000 a year over the next five years to replenish our pantry and provide direct gift card assistance will allow our Golden Bulls General Market to continue this important and critical work.”
Campus food pantries like Golden Bulls General Market are critical to helping students focus on their studies instead of worrying about having enough to eat, said Paige Pauroso, Harris Teeter communication specialist.
“At Harris Teeter, we’re proud to feed our communities,” said Pauroso. “We realize that many people in our communities struggle with food insecurity, including college students. That’s why our partnership with these student food pantry programs is so important. We want to ensure students have access to fresh and nutritious food, so they can concentrate on their education and well-being.”
According to The Hope Center, 39% of surveyed college students across the country had experienced recent food insecurity, an issue that has continued to grow during the pandemic.
The five institutions in Harris Teeter’s HBCU food pantries initiative are Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina A&T State University, Norfolk State University and Howard University. The initiative will allow each food campus to stock and replenish food pantry shelves with items to support students in need.
