SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News)– Hendricks Chapel on Syracuse University’s campus is home to many different religious denominations and even a coffee shop downstairs, but it is also home to a Food Pantry for students in need. In the month of October, the pantry experienced a major shortage.
“October was tough” said Syeisha Byrd, the Director of Office of Engagement Programs. Byrd is also in charge of the food pantry.
With cold months ahead, it is a crucial time of year. According to Byrd, winter is a factor for low supply. The need doesn’t stop with lack of adequate supply, however.
“I think having a food pantry here at Syracuse University is vital for our students, if you’re hungry, you’re in class, your stomach is growling, how can you concentrate? I mean, it’s meeting a basic need.” Byrd said.
The pantry sees an average of eight students a day. Each of those students takes a full bag of groceries to last the week. With supply being as low as it is, it’s hard to keep up.
“It’s important for us to keep the pantry stocked because our students come in looking for, you know, particular things,” Byrd said. “You may not eat rice; you may have a dietary restriction, so we like to have a variety of options”
The month of November may see improvement, with four student organizations planning to “adopt-a-month” with the pantry, raising money and bringing in food to help increase supply.
The pantry also looks to provide necessities that students may not be able to afford, like deodorant and other toiletries, and even hats and gloves for the harsh central New York winters.
People can drop off food or other items to the Office of Engagement Programs, room 004C in the basement of Hendricks Chapel. Any help is appreciated.
The community can learn more on how to contribute on the Hendricks Chapel website.
