One of the area’s largest supermarket chains likes what it sees in the MGH Institute’s Community Pantry, so much so that it’s increasing the annual gift by 50%. The Stop & Shop Food Pantry Program, an early partner when the pantry first opened in 2022, will now give $7500 annually to help the IHP fight food insecurity. 

“We feel so lucky to be partnering with Stop & Shop,” said Luella Benn, Assistant Dean for Student Services. “It's wonderful that they have recognized the importance of the pantry here on campus and increased the financial support.” 

The pantry is run completely by volunteer staffing who stock the pantry every week. Benn along with Mike Boutin, Assistant Dean for Faculty and Student Success in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Jessica Bell, Director of Library and Instructional Design, and M Meyer, Associate Director of Student Accessibility & Support Services, began this initiative to help students receive basic needs they were struggling to afford. 

Benn says the additional money will help fill in some gaps. 

“With the additional funds we will be able to keep the pantry more consistently stocked,” explained Benn. “We know that in the past, items have sometimes run low between shopping trips. This also will allow us to put more money towards some more specialty items that are necessary but can be more expensive.” 

Since the pantry opened, over 20,000 items have been given away. The pantry offers food, along with household and personal care items for the community. Students are encouraged to take what they need. Recently, the pantry was moved to the fourth floor of Shouse - closer to student classrooms - which has led to a surge in usage and student awareness.