Acting locally while thinking globally, DoughClub has launched a food pantry on campus to help any WPI student experiencing persistent hunger.
Even though the percentage of WPI students facing food insecurity is significantly lower than national figures, DoughClub—a student-run organization promoting social justice and sustainability—would like to eliminate any and all hunger within the campus community.
Members of the DoughClub executive team, from left: Sarah Oliveira, Abigael Kihu, Jordan Brown, Mark Bibiu, Emiliano Sola, and Hannah George
The pantry is located on the first floor of the Innovation Studio and is run entirely by student volunteers. Nonperishable, shelf-stable food items are available for free at the pantry, with no questions asked and no paperwork.
“If someone is hungry, we want them to know that they can get something to eat,” says DoughClub treasurer Sarah Oliveira, a sophomore biology & biotechnology major.
The come-when-you-need, take-what-you-need structure of the food pantry is inspired by Woo Fridge, a mutual aid organization that maintains refrigerators throughout the city, stocked with excess food from area farms, restaurants, and stores.
“This is a safe space on our campus and we want the community to understand that vibe,” says Justin Amevor ’20, who serves as DoughClub’s advisor and works as a web developer in IT Services & Support. “The easier you can make it for someone who is struggling, especially in a fast-paced environment like WPI, the better.”
Students who need additional assistance can reach out to the Dean of Students office, which works closely with each individual to address their unique situation. The pantry’s food costs are covered by an endowed gift from a private donor plus campus food drives, support from members of the campus community, and donations from other private sponsors.
In addition to the DoughClub food pantry, many resources are available to help WPI students experiencing food insecurity:
- Apply here to get 10 free swipes on your meal card.
- Email dean_of_students@wpi.edu and request to be added to the freefood@wpi.edu email list, which gets notified when free food is left over from on-campus meetings or events.
- Send an email to food@wpi.edu to let the Dean of Students office know what you need. Staff help eligible students apply for the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), access loans to fill short-term gaps, and find on-campus jobs.