By Amarion Wilson

Greensboro College believes in student success, and that success depends on more than dedication and hard work; it also depends on having access to basic necessities. The GC Pride Pantry is a resource for students who may face food insecurity or financial hardship. It provides free food and personal care items in a welcoming, judgment-free space. By supporting students with their basic needs, the pantry allows them to focus more fully on their education.

The Pride Pantry reflects the college’s commitment to student wellbeing and community support. Operated and supported by students, the pantry provides free food items, snacks and personal hygiene products that help reduce financial stress and allow students to concentrate on their academics. The pantry includes items such as canned foods, microwaveable meals, snacks and hygiene products like toothpaste, soap, shampoo and feminine care items. The pantry is especially helpful for students who have limited access to food or those with busy schedules who may not always have time to go to the cafeteria.

The Pride Pantry has multiple locations across campus to ensure access for all students. Pantries are located in the Student Center, Greensboro Hall, the Global Communication Center and West Hall, with the main headquarters in the Student Center. These locations allow students to access the pantry discreetly and conveniently throughout campus.

Students generally find the pantry helpful and time-saving, though many believe it could become even more beneficial with a few improvements. Greensboro College regularly gathers feedback from students to learn how the pantry can better serve the campus community. Some suggestions from students include adding additional pantry locations in other campus buildings and increasing the variety of available food items so students can prepare more complete and enjoyable meals.

The Pride Pantry at Greensboro College is fully run by students. While students focus on their studies, they know the pantry is available to support their needs. The pantry also encourages students to give back by helping serve other members of the campus community. It reflects a strong sense of community and peer support, demonstrating how students actively care for one another while addressing an important issue on campus.

Interviewing students who both use and work for the Pride Pantry provided insight into how the resource benefits the campus. The Collegian interviewed two volunteers for the pantry, Luke Gregory and JJ McClay. They both said that the pantry is helpful, particularly for busy students and student-athletes. McClay explained that she believes the Pride Pantry is a great resource, especially when the campus cafeteria is closed and students need to grab items to prepare a quick meal or snack. She noted that it is particularly helpful for students heading to practice or other activities. McClay suggested that the pantry could be improved by offering a wider variety of food options, including more ingredients for meals and additional snack choices.

Gregory described the pantry as “very convenient” for students on campus. He suggested that adding another pantry location in the Cowan Building would make the resource even more accessible to students. Gregory also mentioned that including more seasoning packets would help students better prepare pantry meals and make the food more enjoyable.

The Pride Pantry at Greensboro College serves as an essential, student-run resource that supports both the academic success and overall well-being of students. By helping reduce the stress associated with food insecurity and financial hardship, the pantry ensures that students do not have to choose between meeting their basic needs and pursuing their education. More than just a pantry, it represents the college’s commitment to student wellbeing, equity and community support. If you are interested in volunteering for the Pride Pantry, please contact xypher.pino@greensboro.edu or rbrewer@greensboro.edu.