IGNITE Food Pantry Provides Holiday Turkeys for ODU Community
November 17, 2016
A student volunteer packages a turkey at the IGNITE food pantry.
A crowd lined up as usual at IGNITE Norfolk's food pantry on the Old Dominion University campus this week, but, with the Thanksgiving approaching, recipients got an added surprise - a holiday turkey.
On Tuesday, student volunteers gave out 10 turkeys at the IGNITE ministry building across 49th Street from the Kate and John R. Broderick Dining Commons.
The IGNITE pantry launched last year in response to an in-depth look at campuses across the country that found many students challenged by food insecurity. ODU's Social Science Research Center conducted a survey with faculty and students only to find out Old Dominion's community was facing the same problem.
Since the pantry opened, 15-25 families and students have been served per week," said pastor Brandon Robbins.
"Our goal is to make sure no student goes hungry and nobody has to struggle to figure out what they are going to eat while getting their degree," Robbins said. "It could be one less thing they have to worry about."
The ministry is hoping to make the turkey giveaway an annual event in addition to giving out at least one thousand food bags next year.
"It feels good to help out. I know it helps a lot of people," said student Christopher Anna.
Families who visit the pantry have a variety of canned goods and nonperishable snacks to choose from.
IGNITE accepts donations and is in need of volunteers. The pantry is open to all students, faculty and staff every Tuesday and Wednesday from 3-7p.m.
If you would like to donate visit the ODU-IGNITE Norfolk website or to volunteer visit the Give Pulse website.