Food insecurity is a significant issue impacting college students nationwide, and Pensacola is no exception. A 2015 study highlighted that nearly 13% of community college students experience food insecurity during their academic journey. Recognizing this critical need within their own community, the Service Learning Committee at Pensacola State College is actively working to ensure that no student or employee within the college family in Pensacola goes hungry.
Driven by this commitment, the committee recently reopened the Pensacola State College Food Pantry. This vital resource was revitalized after a successful Welcome Back Week Food Drive across the Pensacola, Milton, Warrington campuses, and the South Santa Rosa Center, amassing nearly 170 food items and $10 in monetary donations.
The Food Pantry was initially established approximately two years prior by Jessica Johnson, the college’s AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, according to Makenzie Johnson, Coordinator of Student Engagement and Leadership and a member of the Service Learning Committee. Makenzie Johnson explained, “The Food Pantry initially partnered with Manna Food Bank, but it became inactive due to a shortage of volunteers. Recognizing the persistent need for food assistance on campus, we decided to take the initiative to reopen it. Many individuals are unaware of the widespread nature of food insecurity, particularly among college students in the Pensacola area.”
Food insecurity, characterized by a reduction in diet quality and access to adequate nutrition, has emerged as a major public health concern across the United States and is certainly relevant to the Pensacola community. The groundbreaking 2015 Urban Institute study utilized data from a national survey conducted monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to shed light on this issue. The research revealed that food insecurity was even more pronounced during the economic downturn that began in 2008. From 2008 through 2014, an average of about 21% of households with community college students reported experiencing times when they lacked access to sufficient food. This underscores the importance of local initiatives like the Pensacola State College Food Pantry in addressing food needs within the Pensacola area.
Beyond providing essential grocery items, the Pensacola Food pantry also extends its support to include coats and jackets, blankets, personal hygiene products, household cleaning supplies, and more. The pantry aims to be a comprehensive resource for those facing hardship within the college community.
Johnson emphasized that while further food drives are planned, there is an immediate and pressing need for more volunteers to sustain the Pensacola food assistance program. “Our college community is incredibly compassionate and eager to support additional food drives. We are also actively seeking another partner organization to enhance our efforts,” she added. Community involvement is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of providing Pensacola food assistance to those in need at Pensacola State College.
Located conveniently in the Student Center, Building 5 on the Pensacola campus, the Food Pantry is accessible from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Fridays. This central Pensacola location makes it easy for students and staff to access this resource.
“While there are no strict eligibility criteria, first-time visitors are required to complete a brief and confidential Food Request Form,” Johnson clarified. This simple process ensures that assistance can be provided efficiently and discreetly to those seeking Pensacola food support.
To contribute to the Pensacola State College Food Pantry through donations or volunteer work, individuals can contact Johnson directly at 850-484-1020 or via email at [email protected]. Every contribution, whether food items, financial donations, or volunteer hours, directly strengthens the college’s ability to combat food insecurity within its Pensacola community.
“Many are still unaware that we have reopened the Food Pantry. We want all members of the PSC family to know that if they are experiencing need, we are here to provide support,” Johnson reiterated. The Pensacola State College Food Pantry serves as a vital safety net, ensuring that access to Pensacola food and essential items is available to those in need within the college and surrounding Pensacola area.
