Lang
2/18/24
The University of Iowa food pantry is seeing an alarming spike in usage.
The Daily Iowan reports since the pantry moved to its new space in the Iowa Memorial Union in August, its usage rate has skyrocketed by 89%. The rate of new users has risen from 11.5% in the fall of 2022 to 24% last fall. Officials say 1,106 undergraduates visited the pantry last semester.
Food pantry officials told the DI the increase may partially be tied to the pantry moving to a more-visible location within the IMU. It had previously been on the second floor, but before the fall semester it moved into the larger space formerly occupied by Hills Bank on the ground floor.
The food pantry is currently holding a month-long “Have a Heart” fundraiser. As of Sunday morning, the group was just over $600 from reaching its goal of $5,000. The food pantry says every dollar donated can purchase up to six meals.
To donate, go to Have a Heart for UI Food Pantry · GiveCampus.