Last week, the students of Stony Brook University's School of Social Welfare (SSW) and School of Dental Medicine (SDM) came together to organize a remarkable food distribution event. This initiative aimed to make a significant impact on combating food insecurity, a recurring theme in both schools. The effects of food insecurity are particularly profound on the patients served in the Dental School.

Empowering SBU Students to Address Food Insecurity

School of Social Welfare's Contribution

This year, SSW has three dedicated social work students interning at SDM. They are working interprofessionally across various dental clinics, providing essential services that address the social determinants of health. These students, such as Jazmine Molina, Heather Bromberg, and Onyekachi Duru, are actively involved in making a difference. They understand the importance of holistic care and are committed to helping those in need.These interns work closely with their supervisors, like Clinical Assistant Professor Jeanette Lukas and Associate Professor Kathleen Monahan. The latter oversees the Partnerships for Collaborative Education (PACE) program, a HRSA-sponsored interprofessional wellness clinic housed in the School of Dental Medicine. This program serves as a platform for students to collaborate and learn from one another, enhancing their skills and knowledge.

Student Staffing and Impact

During the event, BSW students Tyer Jehle, Leslie Mejia, Cecelia Yat, Emily Hocker, and Percy Halpern played a crucial role. They staffed the event with utmost dedication and professionalism, ensuring that every person who came for food was treated with dignity and respect. People were able to fill their bags and boxes with the necessary items, which not only provided for their immediate needs but also gave them a sense of hope and support.The success of this event is truly remarkable. It not only addresses the issue of food insecurity but also allows SBU students to practice and apply their social work values in a real-world setting. It shows the power of collective action and the willingness of students to make a positive change in the lives of others.This event is a shining example of how universities can play a vital role in addressing social issues. It highlights the importance of interprofessional collaboration and the impact that students can have when they come together with a common goal. Stony Brook University's School of Social Welfare and School of Dental Medicine have set a great example, and their efforts are sure to inspire others to take action.