Helping the Cougar Pantry Help Others

MARCH 4

pantry room with stainless steel shelves stocked with food

Donor Lends a Hand to the Cougar Food Pantry

The Lawson State Cougar Food Pantry was created to help address the food insecurity many students face. Before its establishment, though, some faculty and staff quietly used their personal funds to support students in need, demonstrating the deep commitment to the students' well-being.

"At first, the pantry saw only a modest demand, but in recent months, the need has grown significantly, quickly depleting our available resources," said Ms. LaSharron Harris, director of TRIO Student Support Services at Lawson State. 

woman in blue shirt stocks shelves of campus food pantry

A grant that once funded the pantry came to an end, leaving volunteers to find new ways to keep it stocked.

One "new way" emerged during a recent conversation with the TRIO State Association president. The result was an unexpected and generous gift offered to help sustain the pantry.

"This donation, made without solicitation, is a shining example of the power of community support," said Ms. Harris. "Thanks to this partnership, we can continue to serve students in need, ensuring the Cougar Food Pantry remains a resource they can rely on."