QCC Confronts Hunger with its New Food Pantry

A dream of making hunger on campus a thing of the past may be one step closer to reality with the opening of Quinsigamond Community College’s new food pantry. Since July 10, the pantry has begun to serve those who are food insecure on campus.

Food Pantry Manager Ashley Forhan said as the word is getting out, people are starting to trickle in.The food pantry is available to any current QCC student, staff or faculty member.  Hours of operation are:

• Monday               1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Tuesday              1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Wednesday        1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Thursday            8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Those who wish to come in confidentially can call Ms. Forhan at 508.854.4411 and schedule an appointment. “Everything is always kept confidential,” she noted. “It’s important for people to know that this is a safe place where they can come and get something to eat.”

Stocked with non-perishables and a limited amount of fresh produce grown by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) students in the college’s PTK Live & Learn Greenhouse, the food pantry is completely funded through donations. Those looking to make a donation can stop by the food pantry in the Administration building, room 351A.

Items in need include: 

• Canned beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, chili, tuna, sardines    
• Rice, quinoa, bulgur
• Dry cereal
• Ramen noodle, noodle cups or dry soups
• Tomato sauces and pasta
• Baby food
• Snack foods (crackers, cookies, pretzel and other non-perishables)
• Peanut butter
• Powder milk
• Mac Cheese
• Dried legumes, such a peas, lentils and beans
• Dried herbs and spices
• Microwave popcorn
• Granola bars
• Seeds and nuts
• Oils (olive)
• Juice boxes
• International foods – African, Puerto Rican, Haitian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Asian and American

For additional questions, to make a donation or to volunteer at the food pantry, call 508.854.4411.