The Student Food Bank at The University of Tennessee Southern seeks to alleviate the barriers and challenges associated with food insecurity and hunger so that students can remain in school, and ultimately, earn their degrees.
Overview
The Student Food Bank promotes the academic success of students dealing with food insecurity by providing a reliable source of food on-campus that is free of charge to current The University of Tennessee Southern students. The Student Food Bank is always accepting donations. See below for items we need most. Any questions or referrals should be sent to the Dean of Students, Sarah Catherine Richardson, (scrich@utsouthern.edu).
Why a Food Bank?
Food insecurity has increasingly become an issue on college and university campuses across the country with some data showing that up to 59% of college students experience food insecurity. Research has shown that food insecurity for college students has a negative effect on student GPA, levels of energy, and concentration. Obtaining an adequate food supply is also often a major component of the financial stress that students bear, but often, community food resources are not able to accommodate students based on their eligibility guidelines.
How Does it Work?
Students are allowed to self-refer, or may be referred by campus departments. Students must present their Student ID or other proof that they are a current, registered UT Southern student in order to receive food. Students in need are welcome to visit the Student Food Bank as needed.
What Will I Need to Prove I am Eligible
The Student Food Bank does not require any documentation of need. We currently are able to operate on the honor system. Students check in each visit to the Student Food Bank, to provide data on usage, which will in turn enhance our ability to attract support for the Food Bank.
What Are the Hours?
Monday-Friday 9am-4pm. Students should check in with the Dean of Students, Sarah Catherine Richardson, (scrich@utsouthern.edu) to access the food bank.
Where Are You Located?
The Student Food Bank is on the second floor of the Student Life Center.
What Items Does the Food Bank Have/Need?
- noodles, especially ramen
- pasta, especially macaroni & cheese
- bars (protein, granola, etc.)
- breakfast items, especially single-serve cereal or Pop-Tarts
- rice
- nuts
- raisins
- pepperoni
- shelf stable milk and juice
- shampoo, conditioner
- toothbrushes, toothpaste
- body washes and lotions
- menstrual products
