Food insecurity is a challenge faced by many college students across the country, and the University of Southern Mississippi is no exception. Founded in 2016, the Southern Miss Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry has provided essential support for students, ensuring that no one on campus goes hungry.
“The Eagle’s Nest Pantry was started in 2016 by the Department of Social Work, and it has been in this space since then,” said Dr. Sirena Cantrell, USM’s associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students. “Our mission is to serve the campus community for food necessities.”
During the holiday season, the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry makes sure no student is left without support, whether that’s through extended hours, special food drives or care packages before campus closes. Even when campus gets quiet, the pantry works to make sure every Golden Eagle has what they need, no matter the season.
“Each Friday, from 9 to 4, we serve about 75 individuals,” Cantrell said.
While the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry provides vital support for Southern Miss students, keeping the shelves stocked and the operation running smoothly isn’t always easy. The pantry relies heavily on donations from students, staff and the local community. When donations slow down or demand spikes around midterms and finals, it can be tough to keep up.
“The biggest things we face are donations,” Cantrell said. “We do not have a funding source, and we rely solely on donations from other people. When we are low on donations, we are low on food in the pantry. We are really trying to work with student organizations during the school year, and departments, and we also go off campus and drum up donations from businesses and churches.”
From providing meals to easing financial stress, the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry continues to make a difference in the lives of Southern Miss students. For students, faculty or community members looking to help, donations and volunteers are always welcome.
