Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
WCU Resource Pantry earns Equity Award from AAUW
WEST CHESTER » The West Chester University Resource Pantry has received the Gateway to Equity Award for 2020-21 from the American Association of University Women West Chester - Chester County branch.
The annual award honors an individual, group or organization that has shown by action and philosophy the promotion of the AAUW mission to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research.
The Resource Pantry’s mission is to eliminate barriers to degree completion for students with financial need by providing access to resources, while empowering students to learn independent living skills, and achieve long-term stability.
“The program has grown from a small closet of food supplies to four rooms of dedicated space at the university, serving over 200 students per week,” said Pam Frontino, associate director of Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs at West Chester University. “The pantry is testament to the support of the entire community,” she added, explaining that the county food bank, churches, and community organizations, such as AAUW, regularly contribute non-perishable items, fresh produce, clothing items, and monetary donations.
The pantry is open to all undergraduate students at WCU, regardless of their need level. No appointment is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome at any time during the hours of operation.
“Student food insecurity has been growing, not only at WCU but at campuses across the country,” said Frontino. According to the pantry’s 2017-18 annual report, almost 32 percent of students on campus have food insecurity.
“The goal of the program is that when students graduate, they will have the tools to succeed,” she said, noting that the Resource Pantry also offers educational workshops on financial literacy, food preparation, applying for government assistance programs, and social service aids provided in partnership with financial, career development and other programs at WCU.
“With the campus currently on lockdown, we are now just able to pro