A few years ago, a group of University Honors Program students conducted a survey that found that over one-third of AUM students experience food insecurity. To help address this issue, the honors students created a food pantry.
The food pantry, which is student-led, is open to all AUM students. It is located on the third floor of the Taylor Center, just past the Counseling Center, and is open every Monday and Tuesday from 1–4 p.m. No personal information is taken so that students can remain anonymous and it costs nothing for the students.
Because the food pantry is funded entirely by the Honors Program, it relies heavily on donations. While several organizations and departments on campus have reached out to donate shelf-stable food, the Honors Program’s Stone Soup Project is the food pantry’s main source of fundraising.
The Stone Soup Project accepts cash donations, and in exchange, donors receive a handmade pottery bowl. This year, there are approximately 150 bowls made by students. The Honors Program students have been working on these bowls twice a month since October and are very excited to raise money for the food pantry.
The Stone Soup Fundraiser is scheduled for April 9–12 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. outside Goodwyn Hall each day. With Mother’s Day around the corner, these bowls make a nice gift, but just a reminder that only cash donations can be accepted.
By Nicolette Parrish