In collaboration with Tom’s Turkey Drive and the Council on Aging & Human Services, Washington State University’s food pantry staff helped distribute 50 turkey meal kits to students staying in Pullman for Thanksgiving break.
The food pantry staff, part of the Division of Student Affairs’ Office for Access & Opportunity, distributed the meal kits in the Courtyard by Marriott parking lot this morning. Students signed up for the kits on a first-come, first-serve basis. Those who are self-isolating, in quarantine, or are otherwise unable to leave their homes, had their meal kits delivered.
“We wanted to let students know we are always thinking about them and are here to support them, knowing many are unable to work and face many unexpected challenges due to the pandemic,” said Luci Loera, executive director of the Office for Access & Opportunity.
Paige Collins, executive director of the Council on Aging & Human Services, said her agency supports 11 food pantries throughout Whitman County. The turkey meal kits were made possible by generous donations, assistance from Rosauers in Colfax, and a grant from Whitman County.
“I’m thrilled we have a partnership with the WSU food pantry and that they are part of what we do to alleviate hunger in Whitman County,” Collins said. “Plus, I’m a WSU alum, and am always happy to have a connection to the university.”
The meal kits included one frozen turkey, a bag of potatoes, a bag of apples, milk, margarine, a bag crouton stuffing mix, and a package of dinner rolls. Canned goods included olives, cranberry sauce, vegetables, mixed fruit, sweet potatoes and a packet of turkey gravy. Enough food to feed four to six people.
“We want to remind students to follow Governor Inslee’s recently announced COVID‑19 limitations by not having gatherings with people who live outside of their household,” Loera said.
A turkey recipe was included with the meal kits as well as information about WSU’s food pantry, which will operate Monday, Nov. 23 through Wednesday, Nov. 25. Students must request a Go Bag and sign-up for a pick-up time online.
Food insecure students can also request assistance from WSU’s Student Emergency Fund and Coug Feeding Cougs program.
