Members of the University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Board of Visitors and Parents Council recently visited Hawk’s Harvest to gain insight into how the campus pantry is addressing food insecurity among students and aiding their academic success. With the help of community contributions, Hawk’s Harvest is able to supply food and essential supplies to hundreds of students each year.
Growth of Hawk’s Harvest
Hawk’s Harvest has become a vital resource for many Seahawks, providing food to between 700 and 1,000 students annually. What started as a modest weekly event has now evolved into a fully operational food pantry with two locations on campus, thanks to the generosity of donors and community partners that keep its inventory replenished.
Established in 2019, the pantry has expanded significantly from its initial setup of a few bins and a limited number of users. Currently, it serves enrolled students by offering food, toiletries, and referrals to other campus services. The initiative was launched in response to food insecurity revealed in a 2017 campus survey, where 547 students reported difficulties such as skipping meals and sometimes going whole days without eating. Initially hosted by the Catholic Campus Ministry, Hawk’s Harvest has relocated to the Fisher University Union and Veterans Hall.
Impact on Students
Each academic year, Hawk’s Harvest distributes approximately 22,000 to 24,000 pounds of food. Dr. Jaime Russell, the director of Student Community Engagement, noted, “We have noticed that the average amount of food distributed per student has increased the past two years,” indicating the growing reliance on this resource among students.
Beyond the statistics, the pantry plays a crucial role in alleviating financial strain for many. For some, it supplements a limited grocery budget, while for others, it serves as a primary food source during challenging times. Students have expressed that the pantry has lessened their financial burdens, enabling them to continue their education.
“Providing access to food not only helps to meet a basic human need, but it also removes a barrier that could disrupt a student’s academic progress,” Russell added.
Community Support and Commitment
The ongoing success of Hawk’s Harvest relies heavily on the support from the community. A notable contribution comes from a UNCW alumnus, who has pledged $100,000 over ten years. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no student faces hunger, stating, “No student should be hungry. They come here to study.” His commitment aims to help students focus on their education without the worry of food insecurity.
As grocery prices continue to rise, the alumnus expressed concern that more students may require assistance in the future. His long-term investment is designed to provide stability for Hawk’s Harvest and allow it to meet the needs of students more effectively.
Future Aspirations and Reducing Stigma
Dr. Russell views sustained philanthropy as essential for the pantry’s operations. “Our entire operation functions thanks to the support of the Seahawk community,” she stated, highlighting the importance of financial donations, food drives, and volunteers in keeping the pantry stocked.
Looking ahead, Russell aims to enhance the availability of fresh produce and proteins, increase awareness about food insecurity, and reach out to students who may be unaware of the pantry’s services. Additionally, she intends to combat the stigma some students feel regarding seeking assistance. “Far too often we hear students saying they don’t have it ‘that bad’ compared to their peers,” she remarked, emphasizing that there is no shame in addressing basic needs.
Support for Hawk’s Harvest can come in many forms, from significant donations to small contributions. The alumnus supporting the pantry encourages a simple philosophy: “Everyone can give. It does not matter at what level. All gifts add up.”
Whether through financial commitments, food drives, or volunteer efforts, every contribution to Hawk’s Harvest helps maintain its services for students in need, thereby reducing barriers to their education.
Source: UNC Wilmington. Photo: UNC Wilmington.
