AWC students receive food and necessities through Andale's Food Pantry
October 21, 2021Community members can help meet needs through food drive and donation campaign
Yuma, AZ (October 21, 2021) – Some Arizona Western College students may not know where their next meal is coming from.
That’s why Andale’s Food Pantry was established in 2019 as part of the AWC Innovation Fund. The Innovation Fund supports the development of one-time projects that contribute to the mission and vision of the college, which includes creating thriving communities and eliminating poverty. Students enrolled at AWC can receive non-perishable food items and basic necessities through Andale’s Food Pantry. The service is designed to meet the immediate needs of students and their families.
During the pandemic, students who were living on campus and unable to return home were supplied with food and toiletries from the pantry. While the pantry was restocked at the beginning of the semester, the service has continued to be utilized by about 30 students per week on average.
AWC also runs a Hot Meal Program where donated funds are used to purchase students one meal a week in the cafeteria. So far over 100 students have participated in the program this semester.
“We knew there was a demand for basic necessities support on campus, but we were not prepared for how great that need would be,” said Shara Skinner, AWC Coordinator of Student Leadership and Activities. “We are happy to help our students in every way we can and hope that our communities will come together to help us continue to provide support where needed.”
To help fill the pantry’s shelves, community members can contribute as part of an upcoming Food Drive starting on Monday, Nov. 1. The drive will run through Wednesday, Dec. 15. Nonperishable canned/boxed food, clothes, baby items, new blankets, and unused toiletries are needed and can be dropped off at the Campus Life or AWC Foundation offices, which are both located in the 3C Building of the AWC Yuma Campus, 2020 S. Ave. 8E.
Those interested in giving can also do so monetarily to benefit students utilizing AWC’s Hot Meal Program. Visit azwestern.edu/student-life/food-pantry for more information about how to give.
Andale’s Food Pantry is located in the Educational Services (ES) Building in Room 101 at the AWC Yuma Campus and has limited hours throughout the semester. Students can set up an appointment to visit the pantry by applying for services online or by awcfoodpantry@azwestern.edu for more information.