Tuesday, January 9, 2018 Huskers Helping Husker Pantry+ celebrates one year of serving Nebraska students
One year ago the Huskers Helping Huskers Pantry+ at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln opened on the third floor of the Nebraska Union. In its first year, the pantry has served 311 students with a total of 1,470 visits.
A survey in March 2017 showed that 15 percent of UNL students "always" or "often" worry about having enough food until they get money to buy more. Furthermore, 10 percent of students "always" or "often" cut the size of their meals or skip meals because they don’t have enough money for food. The pantry hopes to help those students by providing free goods in a convenient campus location.
When the pantry opened it offered only non-perishable goods, however offerings quickly grew as partnerships with the Lincoln Food Bank and Produce From the Heart developed.
“Now we’re able to provide seasonal vegetables, fruits and fresh dairy products for students, encouraging them to keep a well-balanced diet,” said Megan Scherling, program coordinator. “The increase in our offerings was well received by students. They want a variety of items, just like you would want from the grocery store.”
Some of the most popular items from the pantry have included noodle cups and soups, fresh fruits and vegetables, individual granola bars, crackers, cookies and school supplies. Other frequently sought after items include basic toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste and deodorant.
“We are fortunate to have the Lincoln Food Bank as a partner, but there are limits on what they can provide – specifically in the realm of school supplies and toiletries,” said Scherling. “We’ve been grateful that departments on campus have sponsored many food, toiletry and supply drives. We’re also thankful for monetary donations which allow us to buy needed items.”
Learn more about the pantry at https://pantry.unl.edu/.