A 2024 basic needs survey found 38% of the 1,999 UM-Flint student respondents had recently faced food insecurity. This stark reality makes the work of Wolverine Essentials, a food pantry established on campus in 2019, all the more vital. Wolverine Essentials has plans to expand to fit the needs of students, and with support on Giving Tuesday, would be able to offer perishable items–fresh dairy, produce, and more–expanding access to nutritious food and reducing student hunger.
A lack of access to regular, nutritious meals can hinder students’ concentration, cognitive development, and overall health, leading to academic struggles and long-term negative consequences. With the ability to offer perishable food items, Wolverine Essentials can offer essential nutrients and give students greater dignity and control over their food choices—enhancing both physical well-being and self-respect.
Wolverine Essentials began in 2019 as a “by students, for students” initiative, rooted in a collaborative effort by social work students who identified food insecurity as a significant barrier to student success at UM-Flint. With grants from the Ann Arbor campus and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, the pantry launched to meet these needs. Since then, Wolverine Essentials has expanded to offer not only food, but also clothing, hygiene items, benefit assistance, and resources for housing, transportation, health, and wellness.
Support on Giving Tuesday will further this mission, ensuring all UM-Flint students have the nourishment and resources needed to thrive, succeed academically, and fully participate in campus life.