A campus-wide initiative at the University of North Dakota (UND) aims to enhance support for students facing food insecurity through the second annual Pack the Pantry Campus Challenge. The challenge seeks to raise awareness for the Food for Thought Food Pantry, which plays a critical role in providing resources for students in need. According to Kristi Okerlund, director of student involvement and parent programs, ensuring that students do not go hungry is vital for their academic success.
The inaugural challenge last year saw participation from 14 teams, resulting in the donation of 3,594 items and raising $4,325 through online contributions. This year’s challenge commenced on February 19, 2024, and runs until March 5, 2024. With an increase in participation, a total of 17 teams are now competing to surpass last year’s contributions.
Community Engagement and Competition
As of February 26, 2024, the leading teams include Hunger Heroes, which represents housing and residence life staff, Alphabet Soup from Chester Fritz Library, and McCANnel Hall. Hunger Heroes has collected 448 pantry items, while Alphabet Soup has gathered 66 items and $310 in online donations. McCANnel Hall has contributed 355 items to the pantry.
This initiative aligns with the College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines’ three-year strategic plan that emphasizes community outreach. Maridee Shogren, dean of the college, expressed her concern for students facing hunger, stating, “It breaks my heart to think that there are students who are hungry. I know how challenging it can be for somebody to try to study and learn when they don’t have enough food.” The goal is to provide support in a non-judgmental environment, making resources accessible to all students who require assistance.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Okerlund noted that essential items such as white rice, vegetable oil, toilet paper, and laundry soap tend to disappear quickly from the pantry shelves. More unique items seldom stocked are often gone within an hour of arrival. “Word travels quickly when new things arrive,” she remarked.
The Pack the Pantry initiative is complemented by a series of presentations under the Feeding Futures banner. Held at the Memorial Union on February 26, 2024, this event featured discussions led by students and faculty about the impact of food insecurity at UND. Attendees explored barriers to food security, the implications for students, and potential solutions to address these challenges.
Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, an assistant professor of social work, proposed several ideas for enhancing support, including emergency food stipends, a food endowment fund, and universal campus meals. He highlighted a key difference between high school and college students: while younger students are not burdened with budgeting for meals, college students face the expectation to manage their own food resources amidst their studies.
The Pack the Pantry Campus Challenge not only aims to alleviate hunger but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among students, faculty, and staff at the University of North Dakota.
