With Sampson Community College restricting access for students, the staff knows there’s a likelihood that some students experience food insecurity without access to campus resources. Student Engagement Coordinator, Amanda Raynor, compiled bags from the Viking Fuel Food Pantry to give to these students, faculty, and staff.

Raynor says that the unknown threat of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is already daunting enough for students. When considering the idea that some students are unsure of where their next few meals are coming from, these next few weeks become even more unnerving.

Amanda Raynor compiles bags for the Viking Fuel Food Pantry at SCC for students who may want one while away from campus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Cheyenne McNeill).

When the Viking Fuel Food Pantry first opened in the Activity Center, Raynor’s original intent was for the pantry to be a free resource for any and every student on campus. When it comes to being a resource during the COVID-19 pandemic, that doesn’t change.

“I want this to be for all students! Anyone can come to get a snack, or come get one of these bags,” Raynor stated.

Canned foods are available, and donations are always welcome, and the Viking Fuel Food Pantry.

Raynor plans to distribute the bags to any interested students, faculty and staff members. No specific need, age, or circumstance needs to be proven. As of this morning, she’s collected over 20 bags for distribution. The bags include canned goods, boxes of pasta, miniature bags of hygiene products, and more. There is also plenty of bottled water available.

Dean of Student Services, Blair Hairr, says this is the perfect opportunity to serve students through the food pantry. She noted, “To use our resources to best serve our community, we want to distribute all of the food and water in the Viking Fuel Pantry at this time. We want to use this opportunity to provide for those in need and for those who are just interested in receiving a bag!”

Mt. Olive Pickle Company donated several jars of pickles and bags for collection. (Cheyenne McNeill)

Resources at the pantry are distributed on a first come first serve basis. Students can contact Amanda Raynor by telephone at (910) 900-4012 or by email at araynor@sampsoncc.edu to receive a bag.

About Sampson Community College: Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education.