CARBONDALE, Ill. — Studies indicate that one-third or more of the nation’s university students experience food insecurity – difficulty getting sufficient food and nutrition – but at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, the Saluki Food Pantry helps meet students’ needs. Earlier this month, Legence Bank donated $5,000 to help the pantry accomplish its mission.
The donation will be used to purchase food and toiletry items to stock the pantry. In addition, Legence Bank staff will be hosting financial literacy programs in various SIU campus locations.
Presenting the donation on behalf of Legence Bank were Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO; Tricia Overturf, vice president of marketing and communications, and John Dorris, Carbondale branch manager. Tena Bennett, assistant vice chancellor of student affairs and auxiliary enterprises, and Kent Epplin, Student Center director, accepted the gift.
The pantry, on the lower level of the Student Center, served more than 450 students and their families in the fall 2022 semester alone. Since it opened in 2016, more than 4,600 students and their families have gotten assistance there. The pantry is open to any Saluki with a valid SIU ID. Hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and 1-4 p.m. Friday.
Donations are always welcome at the Saluki Food Pantry. There is a donation tab at the bottom of the food pantry webpage or email foodpantry@siu.edu to make arrangements. Donations also can be made at the pantry when it is open or from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Student Center Administration Office, on the second floor of the Student Center across from the ID office.
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