UND Launches Second Year of Food Pantry Challenge to Combat Hunger

A campus-wide initiative at the University of North Dakota (UND) aims to raise awareness and support for students facing food insecurity. The second annual Pack the Pantry Campus Challenge, which runs from February 19 to March 5, 2024, encourages participation from various university teams to contribute to the Food for Thought Food Pantry. Kristi Okerlund, director of student involvement and parent programs, emphasized the importance of addressing hunger to foster academic success, stating, “You can’t be academically successful when you’re hungry.”

Last year’s inaugural challenge saw participation from 14 teams, resulting in the donation of 3,594 items and raising $4,325 in online contributions. This year, the challenge has already expanded to include 17 teams. As of February 26, the leading teams include Hunger Heroes, representing housing and residence life; Alphabet Soup from Chester Fritz Library; and McCANnel Hall. Hunger Heroes has collected 448 pantry items, while Alphabet Soup has gathered 66 items along with $310 in donations, and McCANnel Hall has contributed 355 pantry items.

Maridee Shogren, dean of the College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines, noted that the challenge aligns with the college’s strategic plan, which emphasizes community outreach. “It breaks my heart to think that there are students who are hungry,” Shogren remarked. She highlighted the significant stress that food insecurity places on students, impacting their ability to study effectively.

The pantry primarily needs staple items, including white rice, vegetable oil, and toiletries like toilet paper and laundry soap. Okerlund reported that unique items often disappear within an hour of arrival, reflecting the urgency of the need.

In conjunction with the challenge, a presentation titled “Feeding Futures” was held on February 26 at the Memorial Union. This event featured discussions led by students and faculty on the challenges of food insecurity at UND. Topics included barriers to food security, the demographic most affected, and potential solutions for alleviating hunger on campus.

Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, an assistant professor of social work, suggested several initiatives, including emergency food stipends and a food endowment fund. He pointed out the disparity in expectations placed on college students compared to those in earlier education levels. “While they’re older and can handle more responsibility, they are still navigating similar material constraints,” he said.

As the challenge progresses, the university community remains hopeful that participation will exceed last year’s efforts, further enhancing the support available for students in need. The Pack the Pantry initiative not only raises crucial resources but also fosters a sense of unity within the campus, ensuring that no student has to choose between education and basic necessities.