According to a report by the Hope Center in February 2025, 40% of students at Saint Paul College experience some level of food insecurity. To address this issue, SPC staff and faculty dedicated a full day to it during their Professional Development Day on February 18th. The goal of this day was to raise awareness among staff and faculty about SPC’s initiatives related to basic needs and to equip them with strategies to support students in their daily work. Dr. Clare Forstie, Dean of Academic Effectiveness and Innovation, explained that the topic was chosen because:

“We know that supporting students’ basic needs for food security, transportation, and housing enhances their ability to learn, feel a sense of belonging at Saint Paul College, and be successful in their future. We know our faculty and staff are committed to proactively addressing this challenge!”
Dr. Clare Forstie, SPC Dean of Academic Effectiveness and Innovation

On this PD Day, Dr. Chad Dull shared information about the sources of poverty and identified practices that participants can use to reduce barriers to learning for SPC students. In addition, Emma Kiley, SPC Basic Needs Coordinator, shared data demonstrating the issue’s seriousness. There was significant discussion on the stigma associated with receiving help and how SPC wants students to feel welcome to freely partake in the Food Pantry as if visiting the home of a family or friend who generously offers food upon your visit.

Further discussions included basic needs resources such as free bus cards and other resources available from community partners. A Panel Discussion included a robust presentation of the needs and steps being taken by SPC’s Basic Needs Task Force, which comprises Faculty, Pathway Advisor, Mental Health Director, and the Basic Needs Coordinator.

Saint Paul College hosts a vibrant Food Pantry that serves over 26,000 pounds of food to more than 2,600 members of the SPC community each semester. These food items include culturally sensitive items that embody SPC’s diverse community. Hygiene products, such as body wash, shampoo, and period products, are also available.

Ali Hesseltine, a Food Pantry student worker, shared how much she enjoys serving others at this pantry. She freely shared a portion of her amazing recovery story and how important it is for her to serve others in her recovery. Ali added that gratitude is key to embracing the learning experience and life. She wants the entire SPC community to know that “It is perfectly okay to ask for help,” which is what a caring community is about.

Meeting the basic needs of our students is an essential priority at Saint Paul College. Beyond addressing food insecurities, Basic Needs outlines other related services, such as healthcare, mental health, safety, financial assistance, and transportation.

Donate online to help students meet their basic needs and continue pursuing their educational dreams!