By: Joseph Zuniga
As SNAP users begin to experience disruptions caused by the government shutdown, Dominican’s food pantry serves as a solution for students who face financial uncertainty when acquiring food.
In October, the USDA announced that SNAP recipients would not receive benefits on November 1 due to the insufficient government funding from the shutdown.
JB Pritzker had issued an executive order on October 30, which would fund $20 million for food banks across Illinois, effective on November 1, which will help temporarily relieve those who rely on SNAP benefits.
DU Feeds is a solution for many struggling students. The food pantry is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 AM to 3 PM, and Thursdays from 11 AM to 9 PM.
DU Feeds has seen an average of 30-35 people visiting the food pantry daily during operating hours. However, on November 4th, the number increased to 48 as students sought nutritional aid as SNAP began to see major disruptions.
Sarah Jones, a professor of nutrition and a faculty co-lead for DU Feeds, iterates that DU Feeds has and will continue to prepare to meet the demand as students who are SNAP recipients rely more on Dominican’s food pantry.
“We have prepared for the increased need based on what’s happening with SNAP.”
Allyson West, a professor of nutrition and faculty co-lead for DU Feeds, mentioned that students can take as much as they need. She also reinforced the fact that DU Feeds is prepared to meet the demand of students taking additional food and supplies home for their families.
Junior Raquel Sandoval, student manager for DU Feeds, says that DU Feeds gets its food from grocery shopping, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and from donations.
“We’re definitely making sure we order supplemental items so that we can last throughout [Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday] so we’re not running out of food.”
Sandoval wants students to know not to be hesitant and to visit DU Feeds if they need help with food and nutrition due to financial difficulties.
“We are a judgment-free zone… this is a safe space for [struggling students] to come in and get what they need, and they’re not alone,” she said. “Everybody uses the pantry, and there’s no shame in getting help.”
Students who wish to receive food from the DU Feeds can visit the food pantry and complete a form with their name and their zip code, along with a short questionnaire. After completion, students will receive a card that will allow them to visit any food pantry in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Raquel, West, and Jones have stated that Donations are greatly appreciated by both students and faculty, and anyone who wishes to support DU Feeds can do so by donating supplies at any time.
DU Feeds, formed in 2019, has faced numerous challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and has evolved to meet needs. Faculty leads West and Jones share that this challenge is no different, and DU Feeds will still meet the needs of those who require food.