Food Pantry

Purpose

As a campus community we strive to promote the well-being and success of all of our students. In our purpose to support our students, specifically those students struggling with food insecurities and/or lack of consistent access to nutritious and/or affordable foods, the Intercultural Center (IC), in partnership with generous donors and the Dean of Students Office, have come together to create an on-campus food pantry. We respect the identities and backgrounds of all members on this campus and we strive to make this food pantry a welcoming place for all who need its contents. 

What is food insecurity?

Food insecurity is defined as the lack of consistent and reliable access to sufficient quantities of affordable and nutritious food.

Why would a student be food insecure at Whitman?

Many factors affect students' financial situations while at Whitman, and students may experience food insecurity due to a variety of financial circumstances. Some students may be responsible for sending money home to care for family members and relatives. Some students may also have complicated family dynamics which lead to family withholding financial support. Additional factors can include the affordability of paying rent and unexpected expenses, such as medical costs.  

How to access the Food Pantry 

Whitman Food Pantry

Whitman Food Pantry (Located in the Glover Alston Center, 26 Boyer Ave):

Available daily, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. including holidays and college closures. If you are experiencing food insecurity head over to the GAC and use your Whitman ID to gain swipe access to the building. The Food Pantry is located in the Resource Room on the first floor, which is accessed through the dining room.

Notice there are two fridges at the GAC; only one of them is dedicated to the food pantry and is marked as such.

Eligibility to use the Food Pantry

All current Whitman students are eligible to access the pantry. Students can access the GAC by swipe access with a valid Whitman ID.

Where does the food come from

We stock the pantry from a variety of sources. Generous donors, the Dean of Students Office and Intercultural Center provide financial assistance to purchase food and keep the pantry stocked. Additionally, all members of the Whitman community are invited to donate food to the pantry.      

Guidelines for using Food Pantry

Fill out the Food Pantry Item(s) Record Sheet

We ask you to date and write down the item(s) and quantity of item(s) you are taking. This helps us keep track of inventory to ensure that there is enough food available, that we restock according to use, and that we know how the pantry is being used.

Number of items you can take

You are welcome to take as many items as you are in need of. 

Suggestions

We try to accommodate different needs and although we cannot guarantee that all requests will be met, feel free to suggest a food(s) you would like to have stocked at the pantry. Suggestions can be made at the bottom of the Item(s) Record Sheet.

Contact for information or questions:

Quin Nelson
DEIA Program Coordinator
509-522-4319
nelsonqs@whitman.edu