Rhodes College student volunteers have led the Tuesday soup kitchen at St. John’s United Methodist Church since 1988, but in recent years students have seen some of their own peers experiencing food insecurity. With that, the idea for an on-campus food pantry was born.
Established in the spring of 2024 and open year-round, the Lynx Pantry is located in the Brooks Room in the Catherine Burrow Refectory and can be accessed through Craddock Quad. The Lynx Pantry makes available to Rhodes students free foods and toiletries that can make a difference to a student living on a shoestring budget.
The pantry is a community-driven project led by the Rhodes Student Government, Office of Student Communities, and Dean of Student Leadership and Engagement. Donations come from faculty and staff, student organizations, alumni, and local organizations, including the Mid-South Food Bank and Sista Supply. The Ginger’s Bread & Co. bakery keeps the shelves stocked with breads and pastries.
Other foods on the shelves include dry goods such as pasta, rice, beans, and cereals, as well as canned goods such as soups, vegetables, fruits, and meats.
How did the project get started? “I was approached by RSG about the need for a food pantry on campus,” said Jazmine Rodriguez, dean of student leadership and engagement. “The senators administered a survey to students inquiring about students’ experiences with food insecurity as well as intended use of the pantry. The results indicated there was a need to be met and so we got to work to meet it. I worked closely with RSG to identify a space for the Lynx Pantry and construction began in December 2023.”
Running a campus food pantry requires planning, organization, inventory management, and promotion led by a team of students. In addition, students and volunteers working in the pantry receive training in food safety.
“Helping to keep the pantry running means there is a place on campus where all students can easily access a variety of ready-made meals, food that is easily prepared, and various other items at no extra cost,” said Courtney Shopoff, a Rhodes Student Associate for the pantry, “It is a resource on campus that is available to anyone who needs it and is a great way to get essentials without having to go off campus.”
Operating for more than a year, the pantry has recently acquired a freezer, providing students with access to frozen entrees and select items. “It is also important to note that there are options available for students with varying dietary needs including halal, kosher, and dairy-free choices,” said Rodriguez.
For self-care, the pantry includes toiletries such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, shaving lotion, and feminine hygiene products.
Donations are accepted year-round with self-care essential items being the most needed items. To make a donation, please reach out to lynxpantry@rhodes.edu.