University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) students experiencing “food insecurity” will now receive assistance from Kroger Co. To ensure no student goes hungry, the retail company has made a five-year, $250,000 commitment to the school.
“Kroger is proud to support the University of Texas at Arlington through our five-year commitment to the Maverick Pantry,” said Keith Shoemaker, Kroger Dallas Division president. “Ending food insecurity in the communities we serve is the cornerstone of Kroger’s Zero Hunger Zero Waste initiative, and through long-term partnerships like this, we know we can make a significant impact.”
The grocery chain’s Zero Hunger Zero Waste campaign aims to eliminate hunger and waste in communities by 2025.
“At Kroger, we aim to ‘Feed the Human Spirit,’ and through this donation, we hope UTA students will never have to worry about their next meal—and can continue to focus on their studies and excel as our future leaders,” Shoemaker added.
The pantry made its debut last fall. Kroger’s contribution funded upgrades and furnishings and will aid in covering the pantry’s continuing operational costs, such as expenses for products, outreach, staffing, and programming.
UTA Maverick Pantry offers food, baby food, formula, and diapers for student parents, discounted cap and gown rentals for commencement, and a professional development closet with businesswear suitable for students going to interviews.
“When Mavericks walk through the doors of UTA’s pantry, we want them to feel heard, seen, and recognized,” said Jessica Sanchez, director of UTA’s Student Advocacy Services. “Our goal is to feed student success by operating an inclusive pantry that offers holistic support services.”
The pantry is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With a MAV ID, all UTA students, faculty, and staff in need can access free food and basic necessities. Grocery to-go bags are available upon email request.
