The Brightside: A food pantry that supports everyone on campus
SALISBURY, Md. — On this week’s edition of The Brightside, WMDT spoke with a Salisbury University student who is working at the school’s student-run food pantry to help combat food insecurity on campus. The segment is sponsored by Choptank Electric Cooperative.
George Oakley, director of dining services at Salisbury University, said, “That’s one of the great things about Salisbury University — we try and take care of each other. It’s not just students who have food insecurity; staff members face food insecurity issues, too.”
In 2018, students at Salisbury University took action by opening a food pantry to support those in need.
Christine Nelson, president of the food pantry, said, “We are open seven days a week, so students can come in whenever they experience food insecurity. Personally, I think it’s an issue on every college campus, so it’s really great that Salisbury has its own campus food pantry where students can come at any time.”
Nelson said that under her leadership, the pantry has grown tenfold.
“It’s mostly nonperishable items, like pasta, canned goods, and snacks. We get a lot of donations from students — basically anything that is unopened and still good. For example, we get a whole tub of granola bars,” Nelson said.
The pantry has grown so much that it now offers other resources for students to access.
“We have tons of food, but we also offer hygiene products. We provide feminine products, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and things like that,” she said.
Students and staff with extra goods are encouraged to donate at collection bins placed around campus.
“We have different donation bins throughout campus, like in the library and in Holloway Hall. Students can come in anytime during the week, once a week, to get two bags of free food,” Nelson said.
At Salisbury University, the phrase “no one gets left behind” is more than just a saying; it’s a commitment.
Oakley added, “We’re just happy to be part of the community and helping the community.”
Do you have any Bright ideas? Email us at newsroom@wmdt.com
