Dylon Harrison
Managing Editor
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many people around the world facing financial hardships they were not prepared for. The Idaho State University community has not been an exception to this.
College students are already a stereotypically poor demographic and many students have been hit hard by the recent economic downturn.
As ISU students, those who find themselves in need have access to some support in these difficult times. The Pocatello campus Benny’s Pantry, located in the PSUB, provides food and other essentials to ISU students that find themselves in need.
There are also Benny’s Pantry locations at the Idaho Falls and Meridian Campuses.
“Students have had additional hardships because of COVID-19,” said Benny’s Pantry director Stephanie Foreman. “Many lost their jobs and had their income reduced, leaving them less funds for food. Some have had to rely on Benny’s Pantry to feed themselves and their families.”
Since the pandemic started, Benny’s Pantry has seen an increase in student traffic. This, however, has not made the Pantry fall short of the demand upon it.
“Thanks to a grant from the Albertsons Foundation, we have been able to meet the demand so far this year,” Foreman said. “We also have a partnership with the food bank which has helped meet the demand as well.”
In addition to these resources, Benny’s Pantry also accepts donations of non-perishable food from ISU and surrounding community members.
If someone wishes to donate to the pantry, they can contact the Office of the Dean of Students to arrange a meeting to drop the food items off. There is also a donation bin outside the pantry in which food items can be left at any time.
Benny’s Pantry is open from 12:00 – 2:00 pm on Mondays, 4:00 – 6:00 pm on Wednesdays and 12:00 – 2:00 pm on Thursdays. During these times, individuals can visit the pantry to shop, donate or volunteer.
“There are some students who are really struggling right now, and if you’re in a situation where you can help, please do,” Foreman said. “It’s a great way to support your fellow students.”
Current high-demand items include breakfast items, healthy snacks, whole grains, baking and cooking items and personal hygiene items.
Benny’s Pantry will not judge any student on their situation when visiting the pantry. Students will not be asked about their finances, and no personal information will be kept.
“We want to help students succeed by providing resources to help alleviate some of the weight that is on their shoulders,” said Foreman.
If you have any questions, you can contact Benny’s Pantry at (208) 282-2794 during their business hours. Information can also be found at isu.edu/pantry.
