Living in Ann Arbor is not cheap. Many of the goods and services surrounding campus are overpriced. Everything from the housing to the game day apparel is expensive. As a result, many off campus students struggle with food insecurity or have trouble affording their next meal. To maintain good health, it is important to eat a well-balanced diet. Those who face food insecurity may not be able to afford their next meal or afford a healthy variety of food options. Unfortunately, some eating habits may not be the best thing for your body, but it may be all you can afford or have access too. The Maize and Blue Cupboard is a food distribution resource for off campus students struggling with food insecurity.
The Maize and Blue Cupboard has twice-a-month free food distribution for students who need food or who have trouble accessing it. Students can come and pick up a few groceries with no cost. As a college student, it is not uncommon for students to be on a budget or without a car. Since these limitations exist, it has encouraged the members of the Maize and Blue Cupboard to work to combat the problems of food insecurity because everyone deserves access to groceries.
Maize and Blue Cupboard sources food from Food Gathers, a local food rescue organization. By acting as a middle man in a sustainable circle of food waste, they meet the unattended grocery needs of the students at the university.
Additionally, if you or someone you know is interested, the Maize and Blue Cupboard welcomes students who would like to sign up to volunteer. As a volunteer, you may be required to help with the set up or clean up. Other jobs include restocking shelves, greeting guests, or food distribution. Keep an eye out for this month’s signup sheet on their Facebook page. This is a great way to get involved and help out the Ann Arbor community!