Stony Brook’s Seawolves Pantry Enhances Food Security Support

Stony Brook University’s Seawolves Pantry has intensified its efforts to combat food insecurity among students, staff, and faculty members. Since its inception in 2013, the pantry has served as a crucial resource, offering not only food but also essential supplies to those in need. The pantry’s mission is to provide a reliable supplemental source of food and other basic necessities while equipping the community with resources to overcome food challenges.

Located in the Student Union, the Seawolves Pantry offers a variety of healthy food options alongside school supplies, hygiene products, and cooking utensils. Ashley Liegi, assistant director for the Department of Student Community Development, noted the pantry’s collaboration with the Empire State Service Corps, which enhances its outreach and operational effectiveness. This initiative includes a team of 29 students focusing on various areas, including food insecurity, civic engagement, and sustainability.

On November 6, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of food security, stating, “No one should go hungry or have to endure additional stress because the food assistance they expect and deserve is being used as a bargaining chip.” Governor Hochul’s initiative encourages students to engage with SUNY staff and assist local food pantries, reinforcing the community’s commitment to support those facing food insecurity.

The Seawolves Pantry has seen significant engagement, with nearly 7,000 visits recorded last year and around 900 individual users. Many visitors seek assistance multiple times, indicating a steady demand for its services. The pantry not only provides food but also SNAP consultations to help students navigate the application process, ensuring they can access benefits effectively.

The partnership with the Auxiliary Services Association has proven essential for the pantry’s operations. This collaboration helps reduce food waste by enabling the pantry to receive fresh food donations from local dining facilities, further enhancing the nutritional offerings for users. “We are incredibly grateful for our ongoing partnership with ASA and SBU Eats,” Liegi remarked.

Volunteers play a significant role in the pantry’s daily operations, with over 20 volunteers actively involved. Additionally, the Empire State Service Corps students contribute significantly behind the scenes, processing donations and managing inventory to ensure the pantry operates smoothly.

Trinity Zou, a student coordinator at the pantry, shared her personal motivation for working in food security. Her background, influenced by her grandparents’ reliance on food pantries, drives her passion to provide dignity and enjoyment through meals for those in need. “Every day, I get to see how donations directly impact students’ lives,” Zou said. “Being part of this community has shown me how small acts of care can make a big difference.”

The Seawolves Pantry has evolved since its early days, transitioning from a small operation in a residence hall to a comprehensive support system under the Student Community Development umbrella in 2020. This year marks the first time the pantry has served as a host site for the Empire State Service Corps, allowing it to offer paid positions to students. “It has been an incredible program for us to be involved in,” Liegi noted. “Often, work involving food insecurity is unpaid, so it’s really beneficial to be able to pay students to help us do this important work.”

The pantry is open to all members of the Stony Brook community, primarily serving students who face food insecurity. It stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to addressing basic needs and fostering a supportive environment for all its members.

For those seeking assistance, the Seawolves Pantry remains a vital resource, ensuring that no one within the Stony Brook community goes hungry.