Students in Need Can Get Free Food and More at “Ramily” Market
Hunger is a hidden crisis on campuses across the United States. Twenty percent of students at four-year private colleges struggle to access enough food, according to Hunger on Campus.
Jefferson student Juan Resto is one of them.
“I’ve personally struggled with having enough access to food,” says the first-year psychology student. “It’s a little reassuring to see I’m not the only one, but I wish that wasn’t true.”
“It’s a little reassuring to see I’m not the only one, but I wish that wasn’t true.”
Taking active steps to curb the growing issue, Jefferson’s “Ramily” Market gives students in need non-perishable goods and hygiene products for free. Located behind the information desk in the Kanbar Campus Center, students can grab as many things as they need. Popular items include mac and cheese, jars of tomato sauce, soup and protein bars.
Students complete a quick digital survey on arrival, answering questions like, “Is this an emergency situation?” and “Do you regularly feel like you don’t have enough access to food?” They still can use the market regardless of how they answer.
“When people come by, I can empathize with them and show that they’re not the only ones struggling,” explains Resto, a student worker at the Ramily Market. “So, it makes it a little easier.”
The Ramily Market accepts donations from the University community in Kanbar 205. See the market wish list here.