The opening of the Presidents United To Solve Hunger (PUSH) centralized pantry in the Brooks Library took place on Oct. 4th. The pantry is in the main lobby of the library and will be the main area for drop-offs and pick-ups. 

This location will be open Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri between the hours of 12 and 3 p.m, and Tuesday between the hours of 5 and 8 p.m. There is one other pantry location available in the Diversity and Equity Center in Black Hall. 

PUSH is a national effort to “provide and advertise spaces across campus where students can access food, clothing, hygiene products, and other resources,” according to the CWU website.

PUSH also provides emergency meals by dispersing funds to eligible students who apply online. PUSH club advisor Kate Doughty said that student numbers will be taken at the door of the pantry to track how many students are using the resources, strictly for the purpose of stocking the shelves. 

“There is no shame in coming to the pantry, and no judgment from anybody there. Food is a right,” said Doughty. 

According to Doughty, any non-perishable, sealed, undamaged food item or hygiene product is welcome as a donation to the pantry. There will also be fresh produce provided by the Wildcat farm available for pick-up.

“Soap, toothpaste, and diapers would be great to have available,” said Doughty. 

Doughty recommended food that would be easy for students to use: pasta sauce, foods with protein and microwaveable foods. 

A student volunteer at the pantry, Briana Silva, said, “A lot of students were excited we had this option available. It’s a positive opportunity to have this resource.” 

If students have any spare items in their homes, they are encouraged to share with the PUSH pantry and support fellow students who are in need.