Food insecurity can be a significant barrier to academic success for college students. At Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT), Pete’s Pantry steps in to address this critical need, ensuring students have access to essential resources and promoting a supportive campus environment. Since its inception in October 2019, Pete’s Pantry has been a vital resource, championed by the OSUIT Service Learning Committee, dedicated to serving the OSUIT community and beyond.
What Pete’s Pantry Offers to Students
Pete’s Pantry is readily available to all OSUIT students, including those in concurrent enrollment, GED programs, MPower, Green Country Technology Center, and College of the Muscogee Nation. Accessibility is key; students simply need to present their student ID to utilize the pantry’s services. Understanding the varying needs of students, Pete’s Pantry places no limits on the number of items students can take, and encourages students to visit as frequently as needed, fostering a reliable source of support throughout their academic journey.
Beyond food assistance, Pete’s Pantry extends its support through “Pete’s Closet,” providing professional attire donated by OSUIT employees and students. This initiative ensures students have access to appropriate clothing for interviews, career fairs, or professional events, further empowering their future success. Furthermore, Pete’s Pantry stocks a range of essential items, including hygiene products, school supplies, and children’s items, recognizing the diverse needs of the student population it serves.
Goals of Pete’s Pantry
Pete’s Pantry operates with a clear set of goals aimed at holistically supporting students:
- Combat Student Food Insecurity: The primary goal is to provide consistent food assistance to all food-insecure students within the OSUIT and partner institution communities.
- Connect to Community Resources: Pete’s Pantry aims to be a bridge, connecting students with information and resources available in the wider community to address food insecurity beyond campus.
- Foster Long-Term Independence: By offering short-term support, Pete’s Pantry seeks to encourage students to focus on their education and build long-term independence.
- Improve Academic Outcomes: Access to consistent nutrition is directly linked to academic performance. Pete’s Pantry strives to improve student success by removing the barrier of food insecurity.
- Develop Student Leadership: Pete’s Pantry provides valuable hands-on leadership opportunities for students interested in volunteering and contributing to their community.
Supporting Pete’s Pantry
Pete’s Pantry thrives on the generosity of the community. Through a partnership with the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, the pantry maintains a consistent stock of food items. However, direct donations are always welcome to further enhance the pantry’s offerings and meet student needs. Monetary donations can be made through the OSU Foundation Arts and Sciences Excellence Fund, specifically designated for OSUIT Pete’s Pantry, ensuring financial contributions directly support this vital student resource.
Volunteer with Pete’s Pantry
Pete’s Pantry offers a range of volunteer opportunities for both students and employees who wish to contribute their time and effort. Volunteers play a crucial role in the pantry’s daily operations, assisting with tasks such as organizing and stocking shelves, managing food deliveries, checking expiration dates, maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, and directly assisting students during their visits. Volunteering at Pete’s Pantry is a rewarding way to support fellow students and develop valuable leadership skills.
Pete’s Pantry is conveniently located in the former Workforce building, across from the Grady Clack Center. The pantry is open on Mondays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For further information regarding Pete’s Pantry, including donations or volunteer opportunities, please contact Beth Rogers at [email protected].
Pete’s Pantry Free Bicycle Program
Recognizing transportation can also be a challenge for students, Pete’s Pantry extends its support through a unique Free Bicycle Program. A limited selection of bicycles is available for students facing transportation needs. Students can apply for this program via an online application form, and Pete’s Pantry staff will reach out to facilitate the process.
Pete’s Pantry stands as a testament to OSUIT’s commitment to student well-being and success. By addressing food insecurity and providing essential resources, Pete’s Pantry plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive and inclusive campus community where all students have the opportunity to thrive.
