SUNY Opens New Emergency Pantry for Students - Campus Project Made Possible Through SUNY Funding to Combat Food Insecurity

COBLESKILL — SUNY Cobleskill officially opened its new Emergency Food Pantry for Students, an initiative made possible through SUNY funding allocated in September 2023, supporting student food security systemwide. The $1 million in funding for SUNY campuses was part of New York State’s historic investment in higher education approved by Governor Hochul and state legislators in the 2023/24 Enacted State Budget.

SUNY Cobleskill directed its portion of funding to renovate a private space in Bouck Hall to serve as the Food Pantry, first opening to students on April 15. An initial inventory of food, beverage, toiletry, and hygiene products was gathered through SUNY’s funding and donations from campus members and the community. 

SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King, Jr. joined President Marion Terenzio and staff today to cut the ceremonial ribbon and offer a food donation of their own. 

“SUNY prides itself on the life-changing opportunities our campuses provide to students, but we also recognize the challenges that members of our society, including many of our students, face, from reliable housing to transportation needs and, perhaps most importantly, food security,” said SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King, Jr. “Thanks to the support of Governor Hochul, SUNY has made a significant investment to addressing food insecurity on our campuses coupled with an initiative to connect students with SNAP benefits, a sustainable, long-term solution that provides many food-insecure students with help. With these resources in place, we are committed to ensuring that all students have the fundamental support they need to reach their full potential.”

"Hunger is not a personal failing, but a societal issue. By providing this resource openly and without judgment, we are taking a stand against the stigma that too often accompanies hunger and making it easier for our student community to seek the assistance they need,” said SUNY Cobleskill President Dr. Marion Terenzio. “I thank the faculty and staff at SUNY Cobleskill, who have championed this project and turned it into a reality, and Chancellor King for investing in food security initiatives across our entire SUNY system. This holistic leadership is transforming SUNY into a healthier learning environment for countless students.”

SUNY Cobleskill’s Emergency Food Pantry is open to students Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and by appointment.

About SUNY Cobleskill

The power of hands-on learning and personal development is our guiding principle, empowering our students to grow purpose in their lives and influence the creation of a more sustainable and equitable world. As SUNY’s leading institution of Agriculture and Technology, we explore and innovate at the interchange of these fields, recognizing the roles they play in shaping our future. Our commitment extends globally, achieved through personal, collaborative learning experiences designed for an ideal progression from classroom knowledge to career application. Learn more at www.cobleskill.edu.