Oakland University is taking significant steps to combat food insecurity on campus with the launch of the returning Swipe Out Hunger initiative. Organized by the Golden Grizzlies Pantry, this program allows students to donate five of their meal swipes to help fellow Golden Grizzlies who may be struggling to afford the cost of meals.
“The pantry is a necessity for a lot of students,” Shayla Hamilton, a Golden Grizzlies Pantry volunteer, said. “Especially our international students that really rely on us to help them get through the days with food, and whatever else they need. I think what we can provide is very beneficial.”
With many students juggling the demands of academic life, extracurriculars and part-time jobs, for some, the financial strain leads to difficulty accessing regular, nutritious meals.
“There are QR codes posted around campus that students can scan, and then donate up to five of their dining hall swipes,” Hamilton said. “We are partnered with a non-profit organization called ‘Swipe Out Hunger’ that is really pushing for drives like this across college campuses nationwide.”
The program goes beyond just providing meals. It’s a reminder that the Oakland University community is built on the values of kindness, empathy and support. By participating in the program, students can help break down the barriers that prevent their peers from accessing basic necessities.
“Another way to get involved is by volunteering in the pantry,” Graduate student Emrys Scribner said. “We are really hopeful of expanding and although it might be difficult to do, this program is definitely the start. Our goal is to make sure everyone in our community here at OU has access to a warm meal.”
As the Swipe Out Hunger initiative continues to grow, there is hope that more students will join in and make the program a permanent feature of OU life. This effort goes a long way in building a strong and inclusive campus community.
“All of the information regarding getting vouchers for the meals is posted on our socials,” Hamilton said. “Students can get their vouchers and take them straight to the dining hall where they will be accepted as a dining hall swipe.”
The pantry encourages students to get involved by donating their swipes, volunteering at the pantry or spreading the word about the program. With the help of compassionate students and staff, the Swipe Out Hunger program is paving the way for a stronger, more supportive campus community.
“The only thing we are really able to keep stocked on our shelves is canned food,” Hamilton said. “It would be super beneficial to be able to provide more than that, like a hot meal, which is exactly what the program is meant to do. This has been in the works for about two years now, with our previous manager, and now I am really trying to take initiative and get it started again.”
If you’re interested in donating meal swipes or volunteering at the Oakland University Pantry, visit their Instagram @goldengrizzliespantry, or stop by the pantry office in the Oakland Center.
