Low on funds? Running low on groceries in your room? Before you stress about making a long trip to the store, Southern University wants students to know that support is already here on
campus. Tucked inside the Student Union is a resource many students have heard about but haven’t explored. It is the Southern University Food Pantry, a place created to help students
stay focused, fed, and supported throughout the school year. Many campuses across the country are finding ways to address food insecurity among college students, and Southern University is no different. Whether students are dealing with tight budgets, unexpected expenses, or simply need a little help from time to time, the food pantry offers a judgment free and welcoming option. Stocked with various food items that rotate throughout the semester, the pantry gives students access to essentials that can go a long way during busy weeks.
Student Union Coordinator Kristy Fruge oversees the pantry and wants students to know just how easy it is to use. She says, “One of the biggest misconceptions is that there are requirements or steps that make it difficult to get food. In reality the process is simple. Students walk in, scan a QR code, and select the items they need.” Fruge emphasizes that the pantry is free for all students and meant to remove barriers, not create them. The goal is to make sure no student has to worry about going hungry while trying to pursue their education.
To understand how students feel about the pantry, we spoke with two Southern University students. Maya Hayes, a sophomore nursing major, said, “Yes, I know about the food pantry in the Union, however I’ve never been to it.” She continues on to say that while she has not used it, she thinks it is a helpful resource more students should take advantage of. On the other hand, Juelz Sutton, a sophomore criminal justice major, shared, “Yes, I know about the food pantry, I went to it in Fall 2024.” According to her the pantry was accessible and convenient during a time when he needed it.
The pantry’s location is another plus for students. It is found inside the Student Union in the hallway right before the pool tables, an area students walk through daily. Instead of driving fifteen minutes to Walmart in Baker or scrambling to find a ride, students can stop by between classes or during a study break. Southern University continues to work toward supporting its community, and the food pantry is one of the campus’s most practical tools. Whether you need groceries or simply want to see what is available, the doors are open and the food is free.
