Pcce- Wilkes University

PCCE- Wilkes University

This project will focus on food access and food security across campus at Wilkes University. We have an on-campus food pantry, The Colonel's Cupboard, that supports student needs, however, that's where the support seems to end.

Our mission with this project is two-fold: reduce the stigma around seeking food assistance and transform Wilkes into a campus that could achieve the PA Hunger-Free Campus Designation. A VISTA member can actively work towards this goal by educating our campus, informing students of their options, and ensuring the resources we're providing meet those established standards by the state. Currently, there are no clear processes or procedures in place if a student needs assistance or support accessing off campus resources, such as SNAP.

There is no clear place on campus where a student can stop by to receive knowledgeable support in this area. This project would look to further the development of the food pantry on campus through marketing, access, available goods, and funding. This project would also seek to create a known space on campus where students can come to ask questions, find out what options they have (on and off campus), and how they can move forward with those options.

An additional goal of this project would be to create a Wilkes-specific guide for SNAP options and eligibility. A VISTA member can be a part of this solution by providing full-time attention to the project and bringing about clear and dramatic change. As a university, it is time we invested in a project that benefits the well-being of our students beyond the classroom. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here.

Member Duties : The VISTA member will: -Focus on food access and food security across campus at Wilkes University; further develop the food pantry on campus through marketing, accessibility, and funding. There are no clear processes or procedures in place if a student needs assistance applying for or learning about SNAP benefits and students are not certain where they can go to ask for help on campus.

• Create a known space on campus where students can come to ask questions, find out what options they have, and how they can move forward with those options, being mindful of students' privacy and comfort with sharing.

• Create a Wilkes-specific guide for SNAP options and eligibility that could be shared with students, staff, and faculty even after this project is completed.

• Develop and administer assessments in collaboration with the Office of Institutional Research.

Program Benefits : Living Allowance , Relocation Allowance , Stipend , Education award upon successful completion of service , On Campus resources and facilities , Training , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Health Coverage* , Housing , Childcare assistance if eligible .

Terms :

Permits attendance at school during off hours , Car recommended , Permits working at another job during off hours .

Service Areas :

Health , Community and Economic Development , Education , Hunger .

Skills :

Public Health , Team Work , Non-Profit Management , Social Services , Community Organization , General Skills , Leadership , Writing/Editing , Fund raising/Grant Writing .