Abstract
This study examined characteristics and usage patterns of students who use a campus-based food pantry at a private university.
Student clients of a campus-based food pantry at a private university (
= 30).
A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. A supplementary questionnaire assessing demographics, food security, and campus-based pantry usage/satisfaction was administered.
Food security scores revealed 50% of participants experienced high food security, 33.3% experienced low food security, and 16.67% experienced very low food security. Forty-three percent of participants were International Students. Interview themes included Unique Needs of International Students, Pantry Usage Patterns, Stigma Related to Food Assistance Usage, and Ideas for Pantry Improvement/Awareness.
Students value hygiene products, culturally relevant options, and ready-to-eat items. International students are a major subset of pantry clients at a private university; the needs of international students should be considered during the planning and implementation of pantries at private universities.