Members of Sigma Nu fraternity make a $2,500 donation to the newly created Ole Miss Food Bank
OXFORD, Miss – Ole Miss students who need food will have access to a new Food Bank thanks to the effort of a group of dedicated students, faculty and staff members.
The grand opening for the Ole Miss Food Bank, located in Kinard 213, is set for Thursday, Nov. 8 at 12:30 p.m. The event marks the completion of a nearly six-month process in which numerous individuals, groups and UM departments made financial, man hour and in-kind donations for the student-led initiative.
“It’s been a long journey, but so rewarding,” said Jessica Brouckaert, student director of the Food Bank committee. “Many students do not know that there are hungry people with them in class. I think the Food Bank will raise awareness about poverty and hunger on our campus and will bring students together to help solve this problem.”
For Student Advocate Camp Best, it’s the beginning of what he hopes to be a very fulfilling time for the entire student body.
“I hope that the Ole Miss Food Bank will be a completely student-led and student-run operation that plays a prominent role in overall health and well-being of our students for years to come,” Best said. “For those students that volunteer to be a part of this organization, it is a remarkable learning and service opportunity to be contributing to the security and health of some of their own classmates.”
In addition to a number of financial donations, Ole Miss Dining Services provided the organization with shelving as well as a computer system and scanner. In August, Sigma Nu hosted Foodstock, a four-day long food drive in which the group collected more than 3,000 cans and $2,500 for the Food Bank.
“Our students have really adopted this effort and made it a big priority on campus,” Best said.
Following the grand opening, the Food Bank will serve students beginning on Monday, Nov. 12. The Food Bank will be open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 – 6 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Brouckaert says the process is simple should students need to visit the Food Bank. Patrons should bring their university ID and select food items. There is no application process and all students’ names will be kept confidential.
“We want anyone and everyone to feel comfortable coming to the Food Bank,” Brouckaert said.
For a full list of items most needed by the Food Bank or for directions on how to volunteer or make a donation, visit the Ole Miss Food Bank website.