September 26, 2016 Melissa Lamar

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Tunxis Community College in Farmington opened thePantry@Tunxis during fall semester, to provide short-term food assistance to Tunxis students who may be experiencing financial difficulties.

L to R: Tunxis food pantry committee members Helen Lozada, Financial Aid Services acting associate director, and Maggie Carlin, student services specialist, are among staff and student volunteers who helped establish thePantry@Tunxis.

L to R: Tunxis food pantry committee members Helen Lozada, Financial Aid Services acting associate director, and Maggie Carlin, student services specialist, are among staff and student volunteers who helped establish thePantry@Tunxis.


Located in what was once a small, 144-sq.-ft. vacant office, the pantry seeks to alleviate the barriers and challenges associated with food insecurity (not being able to afford nourishing meals) and hunger so that students can remain in school and earn their degrees.

Tunxis students will be able to access nonperishable food, household, and personal care items twice a month and receive a total of 20 items per month by showing a valid Tunxis student ID. The pantry also distributes information on state, federal and community benefits they may be eligible to receive.

“I am grateful for all of the support this pantry has received in donations and volunteers, and hope this food assistance will have a significant impact in helping our students be successful and complete their degrees,” said Tunxis President Cathryn L. Addy, Ph.D. Students, employees and community members have made many donations to stock the pantry, including a sizeable donation from the TCC Student Government Association that covered $500 in food bins and food.

 

Research shows rates of food insecurity for community college students continues to exceed the national average. One in five students experience some form of food insecurity, which has a negative effect on student success in the classroom, and ultimately on students’ ability to complete their degree programs. In 2014, 64 percent of Tunxis students were at risk of going hungry due to financial difficulties, according to college data. While other community food resources are available, there are a number of factors that can affect student access to these options, including transportation and schedule conflicts.

The Tunxis Counseling office regularly hears from hungry students with a variety of different situations. Some are young and living on their own while others have recently lost jobs. Single moms and dads, veterans, and students who have been recently diagnosed with illnesses are also among those who need help.

A list of requested donation items is posted on the pantry website at tunxis.edu/pantry, and can be donated to the pantry during open hours. Donation boxes are also located in the 100 Building main entrance and in the 700 Building lobby. Donations may be in the form of nonperishable food, personal care items or gift cards to local grocery stores. Cash donations are also accepted through the Cashier’s Office (860.773.1315). Please contact [email protected] or call 860.773.1631 with any questions about donations.

One of over 300 college pantries across the country, the Tunxis food pantry is a joint volunteer effort of employees and students throughout the college. It is run by volunteers from all parts of the college community including the TCC Human Service and Service Learning Club students. The pantry joins several other CT Community College food pantries for students.

Tunxis Community College offers over 60 associate degrees and certificates, providing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare students for transfer to bachelor’s degree programs and employment in areas with industry need.

Tunxis is located at the junction of Routes 6 and 177 in Farmington. For a map of campus, visit tunxis.edu/map.