When a GCC professor offered apples to their classroom, they noticed something. Students were not just excited for a fresh, local apple, they were genuinely in need of something to eat. Once the conversation was brought to the greater GCC community, many confirmed that food insecurity existed on campus and were motivated to do something about it. President Robert Pura acknowledged the need, agreeing that “it is hard to be successful when you are worried about how you are going to feed your family.”

Two college staffers, Kit Carpenter and Shane Hammond, volunteered to lead the initiative. In 2011, a partnership was formed with the Franklin County Community Meals Program (FCCMP) to establish one of the first college campus food pantries in Massachusetts. Together with GCC staff volunteers and students, a dedicated space was repurposed and shelves were stocked with non-perishable foods through on-campus food drives, donations through the GCC Foundation for purchasing goods, and by the FCCMP (supported by the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts).

For over 10 years, the food pantry continued to be led by volunteer staff, including Jan Ross and Natalie Feliciano, with the support of the FCCMP and GCC community. As the pantry established itself and became more utilized, it became necessary to expand and formalize the pantry. In 2023, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding through the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, part of the Hunger Free Campus Initiative, allowed the college to do so.

The pantry was given a name, the Corner Market Food Pantry, and was relocated to a larger, more visible and accessible space on campus. This funding allowed GCC to hire a dedicated Special Programs Coordinator for Food Security, Cynthia Rebelo, who has continued to build on the strong foundation and proud history of the Corner Market Food Pantry. Capacity was expanded with the purchase of refrigeration and freezer units, as well as the implementation of a software program to upgrade data management and offer more flexibility in how the pantry is utilized. Open hours have doubled with the addition of several committed community volunteers and additional student staff hours. A partnership with the Food Bank of Western MA was established in 2023, allowing GCC to access this vital resource for food pantries directly.

By providing an on-campus food pantry, GCC helps students navigate the financial challenges of pursuing higher education, making this transition more manageable and increasing the likelihood of academic success. Beyond alleviating stress, the pantry offers healthy and inclusive dietary options. The abundance and variety of food gives students the chance to experiment with ingredients they might not usually buy, broadening their gastronomical experiences and nutritional intake.

A variety of sources including private donors, sponsors, and grants help maintain this crucial support for students on their educational journey. As food costs increase and funding for food security initiatives faces potential cuts, the principal support for the Corner Market Food Pantry continues to be through individual private donors and fundraisers through the GCC Foundation.