Cal State Fullerton's Associated Students Inc. Food Pantry is making a significant impact in combating food insecurity among students. With a focus on providing fresh produce and essential food items, the pantry is helping students focus on their goals and reach their full potential.

Impact and Donation

Established in 2018 as a mobile pantry, the Food Pantry has now grown into a permanent space in the Titan Student Union. In 2024, approximately 3,200 students visited the pantry, highlighting its importance. Kaiser Permanente's $75,000 gift will be used to purchase refrigerated lockers and culturally specific foods. Talia Rodriguez, the pantry coordinator, emphasizes the significance of this donation, stating that it expands the pantry's capacity and improves access to nutritious food.Aaron Tapper, the assistant director of strategic initiatives, notes that the refrigerated lockers will be helpful for students who spend all day on campus and need a place to store their groceries. This addition will enhance the pantry's services and meet the needs of more students.

Expanding Offerings

The gift from Kaiser Permanente will allow the pantry to expand its offerings and meet the nutritional needs of more students. Rodriguez explains that the funds will be used to increase vegan and vegetarian options, such as hummus, veggie burgers, dairy-free cheese, and granola bars. Additionally, it will support the addition of Asian, Latin American, and Indian cuisine, including rice noodles, miso soup, corn tortillas, spices, roti flour, lentils, and more. This diversity in offerings ensures that students from different backgrounds feel represented and supported.

Partnerships and Support

The ASI Food Pantry partners with local and campus organizations to stock the space with additional food and produce. These partnerships include Second Harvest Food Bank, the CSUF Campus Garden, and the Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton. By collaborating with these organizations, the pantry is able to provide a wider range of food options.In addition to providing nutritional support, the pantry collaborates with Basic Needs Services to ensure that students have access to other necessities, such as professional attire, hygiene products, and financial literacy training. This comprehensive approach helps students in multiple aspects of their lives.Rodriguez further emphasizes the impact of the pantry on student retention and academic success. By ensuring that students have access to food, they can focus on their academics instead of worrying about their next meal. This leads to improved concentration, energy levels, and cognitive function, allowing students to achieve their academic goals in a timely manner.