A student worker restocks shelves at the Pacific Food Pantry on the Stockton Campus.
Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center will mark its official partnership with University of the Pacific Athletics by committing $25,000 to expand the Pacific Food Pantry with a special announcement at Wednesday night’s men’s basketball game.
Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center became the official health care partner of Pacific Athletics in November. The partnership strengthens collaboration between the two organizations to expand community health initiatives and enhance efforts to train and retain skilled health care professionals in the Stockton community.
The initiative comes amid a sharp rise in food insecurity on college campuses nationally. Last year, more than 500 Pacific students used the food pantry, generating over 2,500 individual visits—a nearly 200% increase in demand over five years.
Students experiencing food insecurity face significant academic risks. They are 3.5 times more likely to consider dropping out of college, 40% less likely to complete an undergraduate degree and 60% less likely to complete a graduate or professional degree, according to student retention research.
“You cannot study, learn, grow and stay healthy when you are worried about where your next meal is coming from,” said David Ziolkowski, president of Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “St. Joseph’s is dedicated to ‘humankindness.’ This partnership will ensure students have the nourishment they need, fostering healthier individuals and ultimately a stronger, more resilient community.”
The investment will fund the purchase of nutritious food, improve pantry infrastructure, including new refrigeration and freezers, and expand virtual food pantry options for students at Pacific’s San Francisco and Sacramento campuses.
The partnership will be celebrated at Pacific’s men’s basketball game against University of Portland at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Alex G. Spanos Center. Attendees will have opportunities to win San Francisco 49ers-signed merchandise in raffles held throughout the game. The first 100 students will receive free pizza, and the first 500 attendees will receive Dignity Health water bottles and clear bags. Halftime ceremonies will feature a check presentation, performances by Pacific’s pep band and dance team and appearances by Pacific’s mascot, Powercat.
“This collaboration demonstrates what’s possible when organizations unite around a shared mission,” said Pacific President Christopher Callahan. “We are grateful for our deep, growing and impactful partnership with Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center.”
For more information about the food pantry or to make a donation, visit the Pacific Food Pantry.
To purchase tickets for the game, visit the Pacific Tigers ticketing site.
Understanding Food Insecurity Among Students
Food insecurity is a growing concern on college campuses across the United States. It refers to the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. This issue affects students’ academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being.
At University of the Pacific, the number of students utilizing the food pantry has seen a significant increase. This trend mirrors national statistics, highlighting the urgent need for interventions and support systems.
The Role of Community Partnerships
Community partnerships play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity. By collaborating with local organizations, universities can leverage additional resources and expertise to support their students.
The partnership between Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center and Pacific Athletics is a prime example of how community health initiatives can make a tangible difference. This collaboration not only provides immediate relief but also fosters long-term solutions to food insecurity.
Impact on Academic Success
Food insecurity has a profound impact on students’ academic success. Research shows that students facing food insecurity are more likely to experience academic difficulties and consider dropping out.
By addressing food insecurity, universities can help students focus on their studies and achieve their academic goals. The Pacific Food Pantry, supported by Dignity Health, aims to provide students with the nourishment they need to succeed.
Expanding Access to Nutritious Food
The investment from Dignity Health will significantly enhance the Pacific Food Pantry’s capabilities. Funds will be used to purchase nutritious food, improve infrastructure, and expand virtual food pantry options.
These improvements will ensure that students have access to a variety of healthy food options, supporting their overall health and well-being. The expansion of virtual food pantry options will also make it easier for students at different campuses to access these resources.
Celebrating the Partnership
The partnership between Dignity Health and Pacific Athletics will be celebrated at the upcoming men’s basketball game. This event will highlight the importance of community collaboration and the positive impact it can have on students’ lives.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the initiative and how they can support the Pacific Food Pantry. The event will also feature various activities and performances, making it a fun and engaging experience for all.
How You Can Help
There are several ways to support the Pacific Food Pantry and help combat food insecurity among students. Donations of food and funds are always welcome and can make a significant difference.
Additionally, spreading awareness about the issue and the resources available can help ensure that more students receive the support they need. By working together, we can create a stronger, more resilient community.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Dignity Health and Pacific Athletics is a step forward in addressing food insecurity among students. This initiative sets a precedent for future collaborations and highlights the importance of community support in tackling this issue.
As we look ahead, it is crucial to continue exploring innovative solutions and expanding access to resources. By doing so, we can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
