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University Credit Union (UCU) announced it will match up to $25,000 in donations to its third annual Ending Hunger on Campus Campaign, taking place November 25 through December 31, 2019.
First launched in 2017, the Ending Hunger on Campus Campaign has raised over $33,262 for campus food pantries in Maine. Collectively, campus food pantries within the University of Maine System self-reported serving more than 200 individuals per week.
“Funding from initiatives like Ending Hunger on Campus can go a very long way for campus food pantries, which depend on outside donations and volunteered time,” said Deb White-Rideout, Interim CEO of University Credit Union. “We can all play a part in helping college students stay fed and focused.”
Anyone can participate in the Ending Hunger on Campus Campaign. Credit union membership is not required. Donations can be made at any UCU branch, through the mail, over the phone, or conveniently online with a credit card at www.ucu.maine.edu/endinghungeroncampus. Donors can elect to direct their gift to a specific pantry if desired; donations not designated will be evenly distributed among the recipients.
While most students can enjoy campus life, there are many others for whom pursuing a college degree is a struggle, especially first-generation and non-traditional students with families. Accessing traditional community assistance is not always feasible for those who live on campus, often because of transportation challenges, confidentiality concerns or a lack of awareness that help is available off-campus. This has led to an emergence of student-led, on-campus food pantries around the country, including in Maine. Campus food pantries have proven to be an effective stopgap measure against student food insecurity.
This year, the Ending Hunger on Campus Campaign will benefit the following campus food pantries:
- The Black Bear Exchange at the University of Maine in Orono; assists 20 people per week
- Thrifty Beaver Co-op at the University of Maine at Farmington; assists 15 people per week
- Bengal’s Outreach Food Pantry at the University of Maine at Fort Kent; assists 25 people per month
- UMPI Emergency Food Pantry at the University of Maine at Presque Isle; assists 30 per week
- The Well at the University of Southern Maine; assists 20 people per day
- UMA Community Cupboard at University of Maine at Augusta; assists 15-20 people per week
- Food for Thought at UMA Bangor; assists 20 people per week
- UMM F.O.O.D Club at University of Maine at Machias; assists 30-75 people per week