RCBC Opens Food Pantry For Students In Need

Rowan College at Burlington County has opened a food pantry for students in need, college officials announced on Wednesday. The food pantry, funded by the New Jersey Community College Opportunity Grant, will open once per week out of a discreet location in Votta Hall.

The pantry will officially open with a ceremonial packing of the first bag on Monday, Sept. 9, 11 a.m. The New Jersey Office of the Secretary Zakiya Smith Ellis will be represented at the event.

“As a state, we recognize the challenge of affordability of post secondary education includes more than just tuition and fees. Students face additional hardships that include food or housing insecurity, childcare and transportation,” Ellis said. “In order to help students be successful, we need to address these expenses as well, and we’re excited to see Rowan College at Burlington County recognize and address the needs of their students by opening a food pantry.”

The food pantry, located in Votta Hall by parking lot #2, will open on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It offers an exclusive exterior entrance that students can privately access. Information about the pantry can be found at rcbc.edu/food-pantry.

The pantry will be staffed by the college’s service-learning scholars, who will distribute the food to any student with a current student ID.

“National data show that 25% of community college students do not have enough to eat, which hurts their ability to succeed and graduate,” Rowan College at Burlington County President Dr. Michael A. Cioce said. “At Rowan College at Burlington County, we believe that no Baron should go hungry. Students experiencing food insecurity should know that they are not alone and that we are committed to helping them — no questions asked.”