NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville State Community College recently had the grand opening for their campus cupboard. The food pantry program was designed to help students focus on studying and not worry about being hungry. The campus cupboard serves more than 5 thousand students.
"Awhile back we did a survey on students and data showed us significant number of students struggle with food insecurity," said Lauren Bell, NSCC executive director of development.
Lauren Bell says community college students experience food insecurity at higher rates compared to students at four-year schools. By having this pantry, students struggling financially can use their grocery money for other priorities.
"Such as transportation and child care and textbooks," said Bell, "we consider that a win that these students can use extra money instead of it being on groceries, it can help with other costs with getting an education."
Bell says more students than people may realize worry about going to sleep hungry - and the pantry can be an important resource. The pantry not only has nonperishable food items, but also toiletries. It's a space where students can ask for help without judgement.
The Cupboard is located in room C-113 of the Clement Building on NSCC’s White Bridge Road Campus from 11 am – 1 pm on Monday through Friday and 5 pm – 6 pm on Monday through Thursday.
The school is working on expanding their 'Campus Cupboard' to their Clarksville, Antioch, and Madison campuses, as well.
