Richland students who are experiencing food insecurity due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic situation have some options they can take advantage of thanks to the Richland Foundation, the Culinary Arts Institute, and the Good Samaritan Inn.
Students can now stop by campus to take advantage of a free hot meal between the hours of 11am – 1pm on weekdays. The meals are prepared in advance and not from the regular menu, so items will be limited each day. Students can call (217) 875-7211, Ext. 6267 with questions, but will need to stop by the Café for their meals and they must pick them up as a to-go option. Students picking up hot meals are asked to please use the main entrance of campus at the flag poles, Parking Lot B.
Julie Melton, Executive Director of the Richland Community College Foundation, also noted that Richland students can access the Richland Pantry on Wednesdays only from 11am – 4pm. To access the food pantry all students must enter through the food pantry entrance located in Parking Lot C for food pickup. The Pantry is an extension of the Good Samaritan Inn.
“We understand that food insecurity doesn’t stop when classes aren’t in session, therefore we want to ensure that our students continue to have access to food for them and their families, especially during this unprecedented time,” added Melton.
Anyone interested in donating to the pantry, can drop off items during pantry hours or visit The Good Samaritan Inn. Donations can be made online at www.richland.edu/foundation/give.