Local Foundation Partners to Provide International Foods at Food Pantry

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Staff and student members of the International Culture Team deliver items to the Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry

The U of A International Culture Team and Altrusa International Foundation of Fayetteville collaborated this month to provide international spices and foods to the Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry on campus. 

Many of the international students who visit the food pantry do not see the ingredients they are used to cooking with in their home countries. Because many international students do not have a car, it is nearly impossible for them to regularly access the local international markets in Springdale, Bentonville and Rogers. 

"With funds from the Altrusa grant, we were able to purchase items to help a great number of clients for the Full Circle Pantry," said Cynthia Smith, sponsor for the International Culture Team and assistant director for outreach for the U of A Office of International Students and Scholars. "Over the next several months, our university community will have access a variety of cultural spices and foods. These additional items will not only make international students feel more at home, but will also provide opportunities for domestic students to try new foods when visiting the Pantry."

Members of the International Culture Team, including students and staff, shopped at several international markets to find nonperishable food items, spices, snacks, and mixes that were donated to the Full Circle Food Pantry for distribution.  

The Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry is a student-led emergency food assistance program, striving to serve clients with balanced meals through non-perishables and fresh produce. The goals of the program are dedicated to nourishing bodies, empowering minds, and creating a community of compassion.

The Pantry serves anyone with a U of A or UAMS ID and their household, including students, staff and faculty as well as temporary or hourly employees. The Pantry can provide a three-day supply of groceries and personal care items, up to two times per week, for the entire household. Visit the Pantry website for information on how to receive food, make donations or volunteer.

About the International Culture Team: The International Culture Team is a group of international students, scholars and friends who are eager to share about their cultures through presentations, cooking, displays, clothing, and performances. The International Culture Team's goal is to bring the world to our campus and community and develop a community that seeks to learn from each other.