As the holiday season approaches, students start to experience a variety of stressors that have nothing to do with finding the perfect gift for that special someone. In fact, the holiday most associated with being thankful for plenty of food (and football) comes at a time when student stress is reaching a boiling point with end of semester projects and exams coming in December. Financial resources can become strained as more time needs to be spent on academics and less on picking up hours at your job. Of course, COVID adds a thin layer of stress as we re-adjust to “normal.” With all of these factors, wondering how you will meet your basic needs is the last thing you want to worry about.

Put very simply, food insecurity is a concerning issue for many college students. UW-Whitewater students were surveyed in 2017 and we found that 46.4% of students had either moderate or high levels of food insecurity. In response, the campus started a food pantry, now known as the Warhawk Pantry, to provide a safety net of supplies, such as food and hygiene products. During the holiday season, we try to celebrate with seasonally-appropriate items as well, including providing some basic supplies to make side dishes that are holiday favorites. Since some students live in Whitewater over holiday breaks when dining facilities are on more limited hours, the Warhawk Pantry appointment system ends up being a valuable resource to avoid skipping a meal. 

As the Warhawk Pantry evolves, we also plan to provide winter clothing, school supplies, and other items considered “necessities” and are exploring other convenient shopping options such as online ordering and pickups for Spring 2022. Please email [email protected] and let us know how we can help you take advantage of the resources we offer or to set an appointment during off-hours. On the other hand, if you or an organization you belong to gets into the spirit of giving, the Warhawk Pantry is happy to accept financial donations through UW-W Foundation or items dropped off at our main entrance at Drumlin Hall or the University Center Info Desk and HawkCard Office.

Even if you think you don’t desperately need help, most students have limited incomes and every little bit helps. Let the Warhawk Pantry make your holiday season a little less stressful. Stop in during open hours, Tue and Wed from 2-5 PM, and see what we have to offer!