Fresh Start: Spartan Food Pantry Adds Produce, Meats, and More to Support Students
York College of Pennsylvania’s Spartan Food Pantry has taken another major step forward in its mission to support students experiencing food insecurity.
Less than a year after receiving a $40,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, the pantry has now expanded its offerings to include fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products, in addition to traditional non-perishable pantry items.
The new initiative comes at a critical time, as student visits to the pantry have tripled so far this semester.
“We’re thrilled to be able to offer fresh, healthy options to our students,” said Alex Hernández-Siegel, Director of the Office of Student Culture and Belonging. “The addition of fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy has already been a hit. Students are grateful and have been spreading the word — both on and off campus. This is a reflection of what can happen when a college community commits to caring for one another.”
To make the fresh food expansion possible, the pantry has partnered with Misfits Market and Mad Radish Farm, which provide regular deliveries of produce and meats. The first delivery from Misfits Market arrived this week, and the first from Mad Radish Farm is scheduled for early October. These shipments will continue weekly or biweekly throughout the semester.
In addition, a new partnership with the York Benevolent Association allows the College to supplement its pantry inventory with non-perishable foods, dairy products, and fresh produce from their nearby Powder Mill Road location. The Spartan Food Pantry completed its first shopping trip to the association this week, with plans to make similar runs every week or two.
Ines Ramírez, Assistant Director of the Office of Student Culture and Belonging, said the new offerings have already made a noticeable difference.
“We’re seeing students’ eyes light up when they realize they can grab fresh apples, yogurt, or chicken for dinner,” Ramírez said. “These are simple things, but they make a big impact. Students are cooking more, eating better, and telling their friends about the pantry. It’s becoming a space not just for need, but for community.”
The SCB team continues to build on the momentum by exploring additional ways to promote food access and education. Upcoming initiatives include raising awareness about SNAP benefits, offering quick and healthy meal ideas, and continuing to collaborate with local markets and campus partners to meet students’ evolving needs.
“Our work isn’t done,” Hernández-Siegel added. “Food insecurity is still a reality for too many students. But every step — every partnership, every delivery, every new student who walks through our doors — brings us closer to a campus where no one has to choose between studying and eating.”
For more information about the Spartan Food Pantry or to make an appointment, students can visit the Office of Student Culture and Belonging or explore the Spartan Pantry’s webpage on the York College website.
