News Summary
Lander University’s Bear Necessities Food Pantry has celebrated its five-year anniversary, continuing to support students facing food insecurity. Since its inception, the pantry has seen a significant increase in weekly attendance, currently serving between 90 and 100 students. It provides essential food options, including fresh produce through local partnerships. This initiative addresses growing food insecurity on college campuses, with many students relying on the pantry to alleviate financial stress and focus on their studies. The pantry’s impact and increasing utilization underscore the critical need for such resources in higher education.
Greenwood, SC – Lander University’s Bear Necessities Food Pantry has recently marked its five-year anniversary, continuing to serve as a vital resource for students facing food insecurity. Since its establishment in the fall of 2020, the pantry has seen a steady increase in student usage, with current weekly attendance of between 90 and 100 students.
The pantry offers a variety of food options, including popular items such as microwave noodles, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables sourced through partnerships with local businesses and the community. During the spring of 2021, the pantry served an average of approximately 42 students each week, a number that grew to an average of 73.3 students by fall 2024. As attendance fluctuated—including during disruptions like Hurricane Helene—the average continued to rise, achieving 87.5 students per week by spring 2025.
Efforts by MBA student coordinator Devon Watson highlight how the pantry allows students to select food for their meals without the added stress of financial burden, ultimately aiding in their academic focus. Chase Worley, an assistant professor at Lander, emphasized the pantry’s significant role in alleviating hunger, thereby supporting students’ academic performance.
This initiative addresses a growing concern about food insecurity on college campuses. A 2019 study by a Lander sociology professor revealed that nearly 26% of participating students experienced food insecurity, reporting instances of going a day without food in the previous month. Nationwide, the issue is prevalent, with a report from the Hope Center indicating that nearly one in four undergraduate students and over one in ten graduate students experience food insecurity challenges.
In response to this pressing issue, Lander University’s pantry is one of over 800 food pantries located on college campuses across the United States, as highlighted in a 2022 study by Trellis Strategies. Since its inception, the pantry has steadily increased attendance, promoting a welcoming atmosphere open to all students looking for assistance.
The pantry relies on a dedicated team that includes two interns, numerous volunteers, and supportive faculty members who contribute hours of service each week. It benefits from monthly deliveries from the Food Bank of the Lakelands, as well as direct purchases from local grocery stores. Partnerships with organizations such as Aramark and Publix in Greenwood provide essential donations of fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition, community contributions from local churches and various donation drives bolster the pantry’s resources.
Students and community members can contribute to the Bear Necessities Food Pantry through direct donations or by purchasing items from an Amazon wish list managed by the Committee on Student Needs. The pantry continues to be a crucial lifeline for students as it combats food insecurity, helping to ensure that all students have access to nutritious food while they pursue their education.
FAQs
What is the Bear Necessities Food Pantry?
The Bear Necessities Food Pantry is a food resource for students at Lander University that opened in the fall of 2020.
How many students does the pantry serve?
Currently, between 90 and 100 students are being served weekly at the Bear Necessities Food Pantry.
What items are typically available at the pantry?
The pantry offers a variety of food items, including microwave noodles, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as other non-perishable items.
How has the usage of the pantry changed since its opening?
In spring 2021, the pantry served approximately 42 students per week; this increased to 73.3 students by fall 2024 and further to 87.5 students in spring 2025.
What partnerships support the pantry?
The pantry has partnerships with the Food Bank of the Lakelands and local businesses like Aramark and Publix for produce donations, and it receives support from local churches and community members.
How can individuals contribute to the pantry?
Donations can be made directly or through an Amazon wish list managed by the Committee on Student Needs.
Key Features of Bear Necessities Food Pantry
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | Opened in Fall 2020 |
| Average Weekly Students Served | Currently between 90 and 100 |
| Food Items | Microwave noodles, fresh fruits, vegetables, and non-perishable items |
| Growth in Usage | From 42 students in Spring 2021 to 87.5 in Spring 2025 |
| Partnerships | Food Bank of the Lakelands, local businesses like Publix |
| Community Support | Local churches and various donation drives |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lander University Celebrates Faculty Excellence and Senior Graduates
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Lander Food Pantry Still Serves Students Five Years Later
- Augusta Chronicle: Dennis Perry Named Mr. Lander
- Boston Globe: Lowell High School History Teacher of the Year
- Wikipedia: Food Insecurity
- Google Search: Food Pantry College Campus
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