NIC food pantry designed to help those in need

Nancy Edwards stands next to a variety of non-perishable food available at the Food Pantry.

For four years, the NIC Food Pantry has assisted hundreds of students and staff members who have experienced times of food insecurity. It is a safe and discreet program with no limit as to how many times it can be accessed.

Nancy Edwards, senior administrative assistant in the Student Services Office, manages the pantry by collecting, purchasing and distributing a variety of non-perishable food items as well as personal hygiene products.

“Many students and employees are happy to find out there are resources available during times when finances are low,” Edwards said.

While the pantry is available to students and employees of NIC, LCSC, and U of I, most don’t even know the program exists. Others, Edwards said, may not be accessing the pantry out of concern.

“There is a concern by some of a perceived stigma or they are concerned about the discrete distribution of food,” Edwards said.

As a result, visits are confidential and scheduled to suit the needs and comfort of the student. The pantry is also located in a discreet area where visits can be made without drawing unwanted attention.

“We’ve tried to do whatever we can,” Edwards said.

In the future, Edwards said she would like to see the pantry “at a permanent location, with a defined budget.” Edwards explained that this will raise better awareness of the program to help more who might experience food insecurity.

For those interested in visiting the Food Pantry, please contact Nancy Edwards directly via phone at (208)665-5086 or email nkedwards@nic.edu to make an appointment that best fits your schedule. A Cardinal card is required.

Bags of food are also organized and distributed for students at Parker Technical Education Center.

Donations are welcome and can be delivered to Edwards in the SUB, suite 200.