When you think of college students, you often picture people who have great lives with bright futures. Some college students struggle financially and, as a result, don’t have access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
When some Mansfield community members heard about how students at The Ohio State University at Mansfield were struggling with these issues, they decided to do what they could to help.
The Ohio State University at Mansfield provides a food pantry for students in need to help. The Buckeye Food Pantry began offering items to students in 2016. Since it’s opening, the pantry has provided food and personal items to countless students on campus. The pantry is located on the second floor of Ovalwood Hall and is open to all Ohio State Mansfield Students.
Thanks to the STARS Mansfield Association of Realtors, a donation to the pantry of $100 will help students next semester. Amanda Chapman, a member of the STARS Mansfield Association of Realtors, heard about the need at Ohio State Mansfield and chose the Mansfield campus as one of five pantries to donate money. “I don’t think many people know there is a need here for college students,” Chapman said. “It’s just going to open eyes to a different genre of giving.”
Michelle McGregor, Ohio State Mansfield disability specialist, sees many students visit the pantry for food items, personal supplies, and school supplies. “We are incredibly thankful for the donation. As we become a more residential campus, there has been an increase in students with food insecurities,” McGregor said. “Students find out there is a pantry on campus, and they are extremely excited and grateful.”
For students, having a food pantry on campus removes unnecessary stress in their lives so they can focus on their studies. James and Joi Davis work as student diversity coaches at Ohio State Mansfield and have helped steer students who are in need to the pantry. However, some students may be afraid to ask for help.
Joi explains, “I think having a pantry on campus is great. It’s a blessing to know there is a pantry providing food for them; they don’t have to go anywhere else. Students can come right here on campus and receive the help they need.”
James further explains by saying, “We speak to many new students on campus. It’s important for them to know they have access to the pantry because of finances or other struggles that might be going on in their lives. It helps make the difference in their college lives daily.”
If students need assistance, they can stop by the Student Support Services office in Ovalwood Hall or call (419) 755-4317. The food pantry accepts donations all year long. A fund has also been set up through Walmart. Just go to the Walmart website and click on Buckeye Pantry, there you will find a list of items needed on the campus. Those items will then be delivered straight to the campus for the students.
Source, Photo: The Ohio State University at Mansfield
