EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University's Swoop's Food Pantry, a critical resource for students, is experiencing a surge in demand, with more than 100 students utilizing the pantry most days. To ensure continued support for the program, Swoop's Food Pantry is launching a food drive, "Stock Swoop's Shelves," from March 4 to March 22, 2024.

"The increased demand highlights the crucial role Swoop's Pantry plays in providing food security for our student population," said Nick Pomante, member of Swoop Food Pantries Advisory Board. "We rely heavily on the generosity of our community to keep our shelves stocked and meet the needs of our growing number of users."

The initiative encourages individuals and groups on and off campus to participate in this effort. Participants can form groups, pick a theme like "Taco Night" or "Baby Items," or propose a unique theme, set a goal, and start collecting unexpired food items. Swoop's Food Pantry prioritizes items like canned goods, pasta, rice, beans, and protein sources, and any contribution, big or small, would make a difference.

The drive encourages creativity and fun, suggesting participants organize contests, decorate collection bins, or hold fundraising events to boost participation and excitement. By working together, the community can ensure Swoop's Food Pantry remains a reliable source of support for students in need.

"We are calling on everyone who cares about our students to join the 'Stock Swoop's Shelves' movement," said Paul Leigton, member of the Swoop Food Pantries Advisory Board. "Every contribution counts, and together, we can significantly impact the lives of our students."

For more information about "Stock Swoop's Shelves," visit the Swoop's Pantry website or contact Swoop's Food Pantry office at swoops_pantry@emich.edu or sign up to participate here.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.