Daniel Kovacs

Behind the comforting smiles of our classmates, beneath the serenity of the tide gently sweeping onto our beaches, and adjoining the rejuvenating fragrance of the salt water in the air which make us proud Seawolves, there exists inequality; food inequality. Emerging research from October by the University of Connecticut Public Interest Research Group (UConnPIRG) has found that one quarter of community college students in the United States are currently struggling with hunger and half face some sort of food insecurity.

Luckily my fellow SMCC students, we do not have to experience this same concern, for through the fresh ocean breeze the open flag at the Captain’s Cupboard – SMCC’s food pantry – can be heard cracking in the wind! In 2013 the Captains Cupboard partnered with the Good Shepard Food Bank, the cupboard is located on the South Portland campus in the Captain’s House, 126 McKernan Drive. All students are invited to come in, and put a stop to this injustice on our campus.

Friendly staff awaits to help you so you never need to go to class hungry, or worry about juggling paying for a proper education and having enough left to eat. Just some of the wonderful options available to the student body is fresh produce, dry and canned foods, prepared meals, high-fives, personal hygiene products, school supplies, and even clothing is obtainable.

We are college students, and we have enough to worry about! College is a time for learning, and one of the biggest lessons we all can learn is asking for help when I needed it. Even if you just need a smile from Tammy or support from Issac, a good laugh from Trevor, or the love from the rest of the gang, we are patiently waiting to support you while you chase your dreams.

So please, stop by the Captains Cupboard and then you will know, the Captain is you – setting the course for success and opening your heart to conquering inequality. For complete hours or information on volunteer opportunities check us at Facebook at The Captains Cupboard, or e–mail captainscupboard@smccme.edu.