Hendricks Chapel expands access to pantry

In an effort to make food resources more accessible to all students, Hendricks Chapel recently moved and expanded his pantry.

The pantry has moved from a smaller room in the southeast stairwell to room 004C, which is located on the lower level across from the dean’s office. The new location, which is larger and more accessible, has been developed with the aim of being more welcoming and supportive for all students.

The move also adds new functionality to the pantry. These include a reception desk, where students can log in digitally, and space for a larger refrigerator. Air conditioning, another feature of the new location, will also make the space more comfortable for student employees and volunteers. These improvements were made possible by generous donors in support of the Hendricks Chapel Pantry.

The pantry serves all students of Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF.

“What you need to know about food insecurity is that this is a hidden pandemic. It’s something that affects a lot of people, but there’s a stigma around it, ”says Leondra Tyler, student coordinator for the Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel. “Our goal is to be a stigma-free place for students to get the food they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond. “

Campus Planning, Design and Construction (CPDC) and Facilities Services contributed significantly during the pantry transition, devoting time and effort to drawing up plans and also helping to assemble shelves and move existing and new stocks.

“The pantry is of critical importance, not only to Hendricks Chapel’s mission and vision, but to all of us who care about the spirit and soul of Syracuse University,” said the Reverend Brian Konkol, Dean of the Hendricks Chapel. “As religious, spiritual, moral and ethical traditions require us to accompany those in need, the Pantry helps us put diverse beliefs into dynamic action, strengthening and supporting our students on their journey as learners and leaders. “

If students are unsure of their next meal, their academic success and future could be in jeopardy. The chapel seeks to help develop the health and well-being of all students, which includes access to healthy food.

The pantry is regularly stocked through fundraisers and food drives initiated by several student organizations and university departments, such as the Student Association, Women in Technology, the Interfraternity Council, the Barnes Center at Arch University Libraries. and Syracuse. Those looking to support the Hendricks Chapel Pantry can donate food, toiletries and small kitchen utensils, and can also contribute financially to the Pantry Support Fund.

The Hendricks Chapel Pantry is available to students during the academic year on Mondays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Students wishing to access the pantry can stop by room 004C on the lower level of the chapel during these hours. Students can also access the South Campus Pantry location, located at Carriage House on 161 Farm Acre Road, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For any questions regarding the pantry, please contact Hendricks Chapel To [email protected] or call 315.443.2901.

This article was written by Jade Chung ’23.