It’s hard for students to be their best in the classroom if they also have to worry about meeting their basic needs for daily living—impacting both their physical and mental health and well-being. That’s where Prunty’s Pantry and the Student Emergency Relief Funds come in.
Prunty's Pantry and Student Emergency Relief Funds
These crucial student services are supported by the collective efforts of many donors
Prunty's Pantry
Across the country, one in five students regularly skip meals, having to prioritize other costs associated with college. And studies show that 32% of students claim that hunger has an impact on their education.
Run by the campus community for the campus community, Prunty’s Pantry offers free food and grocery items, as well as personal care and household products, in partnership with the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. Since its launch in 2019, the pantry has provided more than 96,000 pounds of food and helped to feed more than 8,600 individuals.
The pantry relies on the labor of volunteers along with donations of cash and products from supporters from across the IC spectrum—faculty and staff, alumni, and students and their families.
Offerings at Prunty's Pantry
Offerings at Prunty's Pantry
800
gifts
have been directed to the Prunty's Pantry Fund
8,600+
people
have been helped by the pantry since its inception
96,000
pounds
of food have been provided to the campus community
Having access to a meal or ingredients to create a meal means not stressing over what to eat while dealing with different stressors that come from being a student. The food pantry allows me to concentrate on my studies and not a growling stomach.
The Student Emergency Relief Fund
The Student Emergency Relief Fund was established to provide financial assistance to students who have unanticipated and unforeseen expenses, expenses they could not have planned for previously. Typical uses for this assistance includes support for emergency travel, medical expenses, housing, food, and utilities. Prior to the start of each semester, students with financial need can also request textbook vouchers to purchase their required course materials.
These crucial student services are highlighted as contribution opportunities during the college’s annual Giving Day and Giving Tuesday events, but the collective positive impact of donor support is felt throughout the year. Since the inception of these events, nearly 1,200 gifts have been directed toward the Student Emergency Relief Fund, while the Prunty’s Pantry Fund has received over 800 gifts. Karen Walls, executive assistant to the vice president for student affairs and campus life, is the coordinator for both programs. “These initiatives provide vital support, ensuring students facing financial hardship can access nutritious meals and essential resources, ultimately empowering them to focus on their education and thrive academically.”
32
percent
of students say that hunger has an impact on their education
1,200
gifts
have been received to support the Student Emergency Relief Fund