Food insecurity is a serious issue on college campuses across the country. Even for students with meal plans, there are times during campus breaks that students may find themselves unsure about the source of their next meal and without the resources to obtain food on their own. In response, Wartburg College, in partnership with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, provides no cost nutritious groceries over breaks to any student in need. Since its inception in 2019, over 1000 pounds of food have been distributed to students over campus breaks, and the need is increasing.
The COVID-19 pandemic and associated closures at Wartburg over the spring and summer created a unique challenge for St. Elizabeth Bread Basket. When campus closed early in March, many students who planned on returning home over the summer were unable to do so. Student employment was limited. Dining options were narrowed to ensure food safety as new guidelines were implemented. St. Elizabeth Bread Basket stepped in to provide supplemental food options throughout the spring and summer, but because these were unanticipated costs, the fund is running low. Even with the great partnership we have with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank providing items at a reduced cost, we will not be able to meet our anticipated needs.
At the end of fall semester this year, Wartburg will have an extended break lasting from Thanksgiving until classes resume in early January. To ensure enough funding to cover this six-week break and to sustain the pantry for future needs, we are asking today for your help.