The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine has found a new way to support its students outside of the classroom.

The College’s Student Government Association (SGA) spearheaded the opening of an on-campus food pantry to help tackle “food insecurity” — meaning the lack of reliable access to sufficient, nutritious food. 

According to the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness, the rate of food insecurity among college students is several times higher than among the general population. ICOM’s student government leadership says they hope the pantry will be a place where students can go to ease their stress. 

“As we all know, the cost of living has sky-rocketed over the past months. With that said, SGA wanted to come up with a way to help students who may be struggling with food insecurity in a low-key, ‘no questions asked’ way,” said Student Doctor Ethan Lowe, a second-year medical student and President of ICOM SGA. “Medical school is a team effort and we hope this project will contribute to that effort by ensuring that no ICOM student has to go hungry.”

The pantry is located on the first floor, next to the Atrium. Shelves are stacked with nonperishable goods, including canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, cereal, nutrition bars, peanut butter and more. There are also diapers and baby wipes available for students who are parents to young children. All items are free to those who need them. 

The pantry accepts donations of nonperishable food items, diapers, and baby wipes. If you would like to donate, contact sga@s.idahocom.org.