University Of Baltimore Helps Campus Community With New Food Pantry

BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- The University of Baltimore is making sure no one on campus goes hungry, with the help of a new campus community food pantry.

The University of Baltimore food pantry is making healthier options more accessible not only to students, but faculty and staff as well in an effort to end campus hunger.

"Never go hungry and if we can do anything we at least plant the seeds it's just the beginning and life is a journey," said Stuart Silberg, executive VP for the University of Baltimore foundation.

For the first time, the University of Baltimore is providing a secure place for those in need to gather food, toiletries and other needed supplies.

"As long as one student isn't hungry and trying to choose between dinner and a text book, I think we are a success," said Americorps Vista Outreach Coordinator Simone Champagnie.

The University is addressing a growing problem, not only for the students, but their staff and faculty as well.

"To possibly not be able to finish [school] because you have to choose between food or housing, really bothered me, so I had the opportunity to speak for them," said University of Baltimore graduate student Elizabeth Paige.

Paige spearheaded the effort to open the food pantry,  after seeing many of her friends struggling.

"This came from the students and I think it shows student advocacy is very important," said Paige.

It's a collaborative effort to solve a community issue.

"Healthy and successful students is a healthy and successful campus," said Simone Champagnie, Americorps Vista Outreach Coordinator.

The University of Baltimore is working with other organizations to further understand the food security needs on campus.

For anyone who is interested in finding out more about the program, they can contact the University of Baltimore University Relations by email at ur@ubalt.edu or by phone at (410) 837 - 5739.

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