Walmart of Marietta helps Washington State restock pantry
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The food pantry at Washington State Community College will be stocked due to a grant from Walmart of Marietta.
Walmart General Manager Josh Wagner presented the Washington State Community College Foundation with $2,500 to support the ongoing efforts to assist students with food insecurities.
"Strong businesses help communities thrive, likewise, strengthening communities help businesses thrive. Serving the community lies at the heart of Walmart's mission statement, 'Save people money, and help them live better,'" said Wagner. "We aim to create value in the community and providing opportunities for the community is a large piece of that. Your Marietta Walmart is proud to have partnered with Washington State to provide this opportunity to the local community."
This year alone Washington State's pantry is helping nearly 50 students and their families, according to the college. More than 400 boxes of food has been distributed to students.
"We are incredibly grateful for the generosity Walmart Marietta has shown to the WSCC Food Pantry in donating funds that help put food on the table for struggling students and their families," said Megan Hardway, the college director of foundation and development. "They are truly valued partners during this time of need for our pantry."
Washington State started its pantry in 2020.
Hardway described the timing as perfect because "no one could have forecast that the world would be shuttered in 2020."
"It was fortunate that we had our pantry in place because so many of our students were in dire need of help," she said.
The need for the pantry has grown since its opening, Hardway said.
"In just two short years, we've doubled the number of students that we're helping. The growing demand means the pantry shelves need replenished more often," she said.
Inflation also has been a major factor in the increased demand, she said.
The higher cost of living isn't only impacting students, however. Hardway said stocking the pantry costs more than ever before.
Previously, the foundation could subsidize a student's groceries for about $150 a month. However, that figure is moving closer to $200.
"Without the support of our generous donors and grants from organizations like Walmart, continuing this project would be impossible," said Hardway.