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NSU's Auxiliary Services and Sodexo Support Students in Need

Northwestern State University's Auxiliary Services, with Sodexo Campus Dining and NSU's Food Pantry (The Pantry), host "stock the freezer"

Natchitoches, LA – Northwestern State University's Auxiliary Services, in partnership with Sodexo Campus Dining and NSU’s Food Pantry (The Pantry), successfully hosted a "stock the freezer" event supporting students in need. The event, made possible by a generous $1,200 grant from Swipe Out Hunger and LG Electronics, marked a significant step in providing essential resources to the university community.

Swipe Out Hunger, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting colleges and universities in supporting students facing food insecurity, awarded free meal swipes to qualifying students through Northwestern State University's Auxiliary Services.

Lindsey Vascocu, Assistant Director of Auxiliary Services, highlighted the impact of the grant, stating, "A portion of the grant was allocated towards purchasing a cold storage unit, with the remainder utilized to stock the unit with essential items." After consulting with Dean of Students Reatha Cox to understand student needs, Auxiliary Services chose to invest in a freezer and frozen goods for students utilizing The Pantry.

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"We are proud to partner with Sodexo, a vital contributor to our NSU Swipe Out Hunger Program, in procuring single-serve frozen meals to stock the freezer and introduce this exciting new addition to our NSU Food Pantry," Vascocu remarked.

Gracie Jeane, a student volunteer, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded offerings at The Pantry, noting, "Having more variety will definitely attract more students to utilize our resources, providing them with greater access to essential items."

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Dean of Students Reatha Cox commended the collaborative effort, stating, "This initiative not only enhances variety but also fosters a sense of community support. We are grateful for the support of everyone involved in championing our students' well-being."

The Pantry, located on the south side of Trisler Power Plant across from Magale Recital Hall on NSU's Central Avenue, is open to all NSU students free of charge. It offers a range of non-perishable food items, toiletries, cleaning supplies, kitchen tools, cutlery, sanitizer, personal hygiene products, and more.

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