JCC Partners With Food Bank To Support Students Facing Food Insecurity

SMITHFIELD – Johnston Community College (JCC) is proud to announce its official partnership with the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina as a designated Partner Agency. This collaboration will enhance JCC’s ability to support students experiencing food insecurity by providing access to essential food resources.

JCC recently received its first shipment of food from the Food Bank to its Elevation Market, marking a significant step in addressing hunger on campus. Faculty, staff, and students, including volunteers from JCC’s TRIO program, came together to unload, sort, and stock these much-needed items. Their collective effort underscores JCC’s ongoing commitment to student well-being and success.

Phelicia Thompson (L) and Dr. Felita Carr (R) from TRIO stock up JCC’s Elevation Market for students thanks to a new partnership Food Bank of Central and Eastern Carolina. Contributed Photo

“This partnership is about more than just food—it’s about fostering a culture of care and ensuring that no student has to choose between education and basic necessities,” says Dr. Felita Carr, director of student support services (TRIO) and coordinator of the Elevation Market.

“By working together, we are building a stronger, more supportive campus community,” Dr. Carr adds.

“The federal TRIO program is a cornerstone of student success at JCC, and frankly all of the state’s community colleges, providing critical academic support, mentorship, and resources to help students overcome barriers,” says JCC President Dr. Vern L. Lindquist.

“This partnership with the Food Bank is an extension of that mission, ensuring that students not only succeed in the classroom but also have access to the things they need outside of the classroom,” Lindquist adds.

As part of this new collaboration, JCC has participated in the Food Bank’s New Agency Orientation to finalize operational details and establish distribution procedures. This training will ensure that JCC staff and volunteers can effectively manage food distribution and maximize the impact of this initiative.

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