New food resource will serve all students, no questions asked
When The Pantry opens its doors on the first floor of Lila D. Bunch Library this spring, Belmont will take a significant step toward ensuring no student has to choose between buying textbooks and buying groceries.
The Pantry, a new resource developed by the Creating Pathways for Support Team, will
provide free nutritious items to all currently enrolled Belmont students. It fills a crucial gap by offering complete autonomy and privacy to students — no applications, no appointments, no explanations necessary. Whether students need ingredients for a meal or just a snack between classes, The Pantry will be there, embodying the University's commitment to "hospitality for all.”
The initiative was created in response to research conducted by Trellis Company in fall 2022, which showed that 40 percent of Belmont students experience food insecurity. Many existing resources remain underutilized, however, due to barriers like required appointments, limited hours and the stigma often associated with asking for help.
"We wanted to create a truly accessible space where getting food is as simple as checking out a library book," said Audrey Morlan, one of Belmont’s student care coordinators, who brings extensive experience from working with food pantries at Boise State University.
By housing The Pantry in the library — a central campus hub with extended hours — the University removes many of these accessibility barriers and meets students where they already are.
The Pantry represents just one piece of Belmont's broader "Nourishing Network" of food security initiatives. With initial funding from multiple campus partners and members of the Belmont community, the space will maintain a selection of staple items alongside rotating donations.
"The Pantry aims to create a community where every student knows they belong and are supported. Removing food insecurity as a barrier allows students to focus on what they came here to do: learn, grow and prepare for their futures " said Associate Dean of Students Dr. Angie Bryant.
The Pantry Subcommittee, including staff from across campus, envisions future expansion with satellite pantries in academic buildings, creating what Morlan describes as a "network of care".
Stay tuned for details about the official ribbon cutting this fall, upcoming food drives and ways to support The Pantry. In the meantime, you can bring non-perishable food and hygiene items to the donation bin in the library.
For more information about The Pantry or how to contribute to this initiative, please email Pantry@belmont.edu.