DSU food pantries celebrate 10 years of supporting students
For the past 10 years, Delaware State University’s food pantries have been about more than providing food to students. They have provided students with a place to turn for support, helping ease the burden of food insecurity while ensuring that access to nutritious meals does not stand in the way of their education.
What began in 2016 as an effort to address a growing concern among students has become a University-wide initiative rooted in compassion, community and a shared commitment to student success.
The effort began when Dr. Amy Gootee-Ash, Director of DSU’s Master of Public Health Program, heard from students who were struggling to afford enough food during the semester. Some shared that even when food was available, healthier options were often out of reach.
Determined to help, Gootee-Ash conducted a food security survey involving nearly 400 students. The findings helped lay the groundwork for the University’s first food pantry, established through support from the Food Bank of Delaware and the Harry K Foundation.
When the pantry opened in fall 2016, it welcomed over 70 students on its first day. A decade later, that commitment has grown into two locations: the Hornets Nest Pantry on the main campus and the BuzzStop Pantry at the Wesley Downtown Campus.
The pantries now operate four days a week, offering food, essential supplies and opportunities for students to become involved. Since August 2026 alone, they have served 1,925 students.
“There are so many milestones, and each committee member has made them happen,” Gootee-Ash said, reflecting on the partnerships, expanded services and student involvement that have shaped the initiative.
That spirit of collaboration continues to bring new opportunities to campus. Through donations, volunteers and community partnerships, the pantries have expanded their offerings to include fresh produce, food giveaways and activities that make healthy eating more accessible and enjoyable.
Dr. Tracey Phillips, Associate Director of Health Promotion & Employee Wellness, believes the initiative’s greatest strength lies in the care behind its services.
“What makes this growth so meaningful is that the pantry represents more than providing food; it represents care, compassion, dignity, and a commitment to addressing the basic needs of our students,” Phillips said.
One of the latest additions is Fresh Table, a chef-led cooking demonstration offered in partnership with The Hopp. Students can learn practical cooking skills, discover nutritious meal options and gain confidence in preparing food for themselves.
“Ultimately, every donation, volunteer hour, and partnership contributes to something much bigger: ensuring that students have access to resources that support their ability to remain focused on their education and reach their goals,” Phillips said.
For Gootee-Ash, reaching the 10-year milestone is particularly meaningful because it reflects the lasting difference that a simple commitment to helping students can make.
“Celebrating the 10th anniversary is meaningful to me because it represents ten years of working toward something that is essential to student success: access to quality, nutritious food,” she said. “Food insecurity can be a significant barrier to students’ academic and personal well-being, and the pantry helps ensure that students have a resource they can turn to without stigma.”
As DSU celebrates this milestone, the focus remains on reaching more students, expanding resources and making the pantries an even more welcoming part of campus life.
Phillips captured that vision for the years ahead.
“The next chapter is about more than feeding students. It is about nourishing, educating, empowering, and creating an environment where every Hornet has the opportunity to thrive.”