Monroe – Louisiana Delta Community College (LDCC) is hosting a food drive culminating on Martin Luther King Jr.’s Day of Service, observed annually on the third Monday in January. This year, the Student Government Association (SGA) has chosen to look inward for a service opportunity.
Dean of Students Success Services, Alvina Thomas shares, “LDCC has partnered with ULM for MLK’s Day of Service for many years, but this year the SGA decided to focus on the food insecurity needs of their fellow students.”
Food insecurity has been a major topic of conversation among Louisiana’s children and seniors, ranking first and third in the nation, respectively. But now, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity is also greatly impacting college students, according to Forbes. In fact, nearly 40% of U.S. college students currently fall into this category.
The nonprofit organization Feeding America defines food insecurity as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.”
Says LDCC’s chancellor, Dr. Randy Esters, “Many of us do not think of food insecurity as a barrier to completing college or career training. If a parent must choose between food for their children or themselves or a textbook, the food will and should win every time. Our mission is to remove as many barriers as possible, this is just another way to accomplish that. Many LDCC students are also parents, but this lack touches students who are not parents, as well.
“I know there are students who don’t have enough money to adequately eat,” says David Payne, SGA president. That’s why having a pantry on campus is so important. It’s a lot more to completing a degree than academics because if a person is hungry, it’s definitely hard to focus and learn. As president of the student body, it’s great to have events, but it’s equally valuable to meet the basic needs of our students when we can.”
Promise Pantry food collection sites are LDCC-Monroe Campus and both the West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber and the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. “LDCC continues to provide opportunities for students - meeting them where they are and opening doors for their future. Basic food security is essential to helping those students pursue their dreams. I can think of no greater act of service on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s Day than to pay it forward and ensure all dreams are accessible. This is what the Promise Pantry does – ensures opportunity, and manifests dreams into reality. The WMWO Chamber is honored to stand together with our community partners and Monroe Chamber for this project,” says Kris Kelley, West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber president.
Perishable and nonperishable items can be dropped off at either of the three locations and on Monday, January 16th, from 12-2 p.m., the pantry will be stocked with the items collected. “LDCC is grateful for the willingness of both chambers to be collection sites, “ says Thomas.
The mission of the Promise Pantry is to provide students and the campus community with the promise of nourishment and hope. “I can think of no better day for a food drive or a day of service than Dr. Martin Luther King Day. Dr. King said, “The time is always right to do what is right.’ LDDC, once again, is leading the way in doing right. The Monroe Chamber is honored to be part of this great day and project, shares Roy Heatherly, Monroe Chamber president.
The following items are requested:
Protein
Cans of Tuna
Cans of Chicken
Canned Stew
Hash
Pork & Beans
Soups
Peanut Butter
Canned Chili
Canned Vegetables
Beans
Carrots
Peas
Tomatoes
Corn
Potatoes
Fruits
Canned Fruits
Fruit Cups
Dried Fruits
Jellies/Jams
Raisins
Starches
Rice
Pasta
Macaroni & Cheese
Crackers
Boxed Meals
Instant Potatoes
Instant Ramen/Noodle Soup