SUNY Cobleskill opens food pantry

The Daily Star, Oneonta, N.Y.
·2 min read

Apr. 24—SUNY Cobleskill officially opened its new Emergency Food Pantry for Students on Tuesday, April 23.

The initiative was made possible through SUNY funding allocated in September 2023, supporting student food security systemwide, according to a media release from the college.

SUNY Cobleskill directed its portion of funding to renovate a private space in Bouck Hall to serve as the food pantry, first opening to students on April 15. An initial inventory of food, beverage, toiletry and hygiene products was gathered through SUNY's funding and donations from campus members and the community.

SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King Jr. joined college President Marion Terenzio and staff to cut the ceremonial ribbon and offer a food donation of their own.

"SUNY prides itself on the life-changing opportunities our campuses provide to students, but we also recognize the challenges that members of our society, including many of our students, face, from reliable housing to transportation needs and, perhaps most importantly, food security," King said. "Thanks to the support of Governor Hochul, SUNY has made a significant investment to addressing food insecurity on our campuses coupled with an initiative to connect students with SNAP benefits, a sustainable, long-term solution that provides many food-insecure students with help. With these resources in place, we are committed to ensuring that all students have the fundamental support they need to reach their full potential."

"Hunger is not a personal failing, but a societal issue. By providing this resource openly and without judgment, we are taking a stand against the stigma that too often accompanies hunger and making it easier for our student community to seek the assistance they need," Terenzio said. "I thank the faculty and staff at SUNY Cobleskill, who have championed this project and turned it into a reality, and Chancellor King for investing in food security initiatives across our entire SUNY system. This holistic leadership is transforming SUNY into a healthier learning environment for countless students."

SUNY Cobleskill's Emergency Food Pantry is open to students Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and by appointment.