Student Food Pantry accepting donations

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Though it may not always be obvious, one in six Americans faces hunger daily. In Ohio, food insecurity, or the lack of access to enough food to support a household, is higher than the average rate in the United States.

UT is combating hunger with the Student Food Pantry, which provides a sustainable resource to those in need of temporary help.

“It’s essential to our students’ success that they focus on their academics more than where their next meal will be coming from. By eliminating their need to find food, the Student Food Pantry allows the students to focus more on how to be a successful college student with their academics,” said Daniel Boyle, student advocate and student involvement specialist for the Office of Student Advocacy and Support.

Boyle noted that in addition to perishable and nonperishable food items and toiletries, monetary donations are accepted and appreciated.

“The pantry is 100 percent donations-based,” Boyle said. “The more donations that we receive, the better we can help serve those UT students that need an extra bit of support.”

The Student Food Pantry is located in Thompson Student Union Room 2504, across from the Commuter Lounge. Boyle explained the location provides visibility in an effort to battle any stigma that may have been associated with using the pantry.

“Since the move in February 2016, there have been nearly 900 individual visits to the Student Food Pantry by UT students,” Boyle said.

For more information on the pantry, including eligibility, donations and organizing a food drive, visit utoledo.edu/studentaffairs/food-pantry.