Published to Newsletter on Oct 26, 2022
As advocates and voices for health and wellness at The University of New Mexico, we at Benefits & Employee Wellness are constantly striving to support those who provide essential services to UNM and the greater Albuquerque and New Mexico communities. Benefits & Employee Wellness is creating a call-to-action for the Lobo Food Pantry too keep their shelves stocked over the upcoming holiday season.
According to the CDC, New Mexico ranks second in highest rates of food insecurity in the United States. Many communities within New Mexico and Albuquerque are at considerable risk for health-related diseases, including significant rates of heart disease and diabetes. Inequities in food access contribute to disproportionately high rates of health issues for Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic/Latino communities (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). The Food and Agriculture Organization Food Price Index indicates that food prices have risen almost 8% since August 2021. These drastic changes in cost are seen on both a local and global scale.
President Stokes recently acknowledged the record usage of the Lobo Food Pantry. We need the support of the UNM community to ensure that vital resources are available for those in need. In order to bridge the gap between food access and thus, public wellness, we rely on our communities to support one another.
The Lobo Food Pantry provides free groceries to currently enrolled students. Your donation will support the costs associated with running the food pantry and help support people who need access to food. This program is a collaboration between the Dean of Students Office, Office of Student Affairs, and Roadrunner Food Bank. With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s important that the UNM community support the Lobo Food Pantry. The pantry is located in the Student Union Building and is open Monday-Thursday for students to pick up food. If you can help, please consider contributing food or monetary donations.
Please visit their website for the latest information on hours and current needs.
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