Two women at Binghamton University are tackling a very real problem at college campuses across the nation, but it’s one you might not think of.

Even at top universities across the state, food insecurity can be a big issue. But a unique program at Binghamton University allows select students to order groceries online and pick them up at the school’s food pantry.

For Linda Salomons, students have always been a top priority, and she said more use the pantry than you might think.

“Sometimes it’s once a month, sometimes it’s just when they’re going through a crisis or a hard time and sometimes it’s every other week that they need some additional support with food, hygiene items,” said Salomons, Parent and Family Programs and Food Pantry operations assistant director.

While she plays a big role in the pantry, most of it is actually student-run.

Maddie Petherick knows firsthand the struggles many face. That issue only grew over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic when plenty of off-campus students simply weren’t able to go home. Many relied on the pantry in what turned into a difficult time.

“Last year, with the height of COVID, we saw 25 to 30 students, most international who live off campus. They were using the pantry regularly during winter break,” said Petherick, food pantry graduate assistant.

And while those numbers are down a bit this year, the overall issue remains. But thanks to donations from the community, including CHOW and the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, the pantry is able to stock just about anything a student might need, from a variety of refrigerated items to every day toiletries and even school supplies.

“We get an incredible amount of donations through student organizations, as well as Binghamton university alumni, community members, community businesses that we’re so grateful for because that really helps stock the pantry," said Salomons.

For Petherick, giving back, especially during a time like now when students need it most, makes it all worth it.

“Personally, I know that it’s hard to focus on school when you’re hungry, so just to be able to help my peers succeed in any way possible, it just makes me heart happy,” said Petherick.

Over the fall semester, 275 students have utilized the food pantry.