With grocery prices at an all time high and benefits decreasing, to help support those in need, SUNY Cortland has expanded its food assistance efforts by running the Cortland Cupboard, preparing meals for Fill the Fridge Friday, and donating leftover meals to Cortland Loaves and Fishes.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program also known as SNAP, is a federal program that uses Electronic Benefit Transfer also known as EBT card to give low income households monthly food assistance. It is the largest anti-hunger program in the United States, helping eligible people and families buy groceries. The most recent cuts of SNAP have reduced the monthly benefits for individuals, making it difficult to maintain access to affordable meals. In response to this, SUNY Cortland has expanded their efforts to make sure no one is left hungry.
The Cortland Cupboard is the campus’ food pantry, and it’s open to all students in need of food and personal hygiene products at absolutely no cost. No applications are needed, students can walk in using their student I.D. to swipe in. It is located in the basement of Old Main in room B-05. The hours are Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Another effort to help support Cortland community is Fill the Fridge Friday. John Donovan, SUNY Cortland dining director, explained that once a month on Fridays, the dining staff collect leftovers at The Bistro dining hall and prepare “ready to go” meals. Typically, 50 to 75 meals are made and delivered to the Cortland Cupboard. This program aims to not only support those in need, but to reduce food waste on campus.
In addition to the monthly contribution, John Donovan shared that Cortland campus dining facilities also donate food every Friday to Cortland Loaves and Fishes. Cortland Loaves and Fishes is a nonprofit organization that offers free meals to the community. Members of campus’ dining facilities gather leftover meals, such as salads, sandwiches, fruit cups and other prepared items, for donation. These donations provide a consistent supply of ready to go meals for individuals who are in need.
While Cortland campus cannot change federal policies, as SNAP benefit cuts continue, it has taken many different steps to support those affected by the cuts, and anyone who wishes to help, can also donate to those in need. The Cortland Cupboard accepts donations year round and accepts a variety of non expired food items along with personal care products. Donations are accepted in the basement of Old Main, room B-05 during open hours.