CareSource, a mission-driven Medicaid plan serving more than 450,000 Georgians, has sponsored Georgia State University’s Panther’s Pantry, with locations at all six Georgia State campuses in metro-Atlanta. Panther’s Pantry distributes food and supplies to the Georgia State community to combat short-term food insecurity and support academic success.   

“Food insecurity can be a major issue on college campuses, often interfering with students' ability to learn,” said Jason Bearden, CareSource Georgia president. “CareSource is proud to support Panther’s Pantry to help alleviate the burden of food insecurity on GSU students. As an alum of Georgia State, I am thankful to have the opportunity to give back to the GSU community.”  

Students, faculty, and staff can pick up a food bag, hygiene bag, and period products once a week from the in-person pantry or the pantry lockers. The Atlanta in-person location also provides microwaveable meals, locally grown produce, and school supplies. To support additional needs associated with food insecurity, Panther’s Pantry collaborates with Georgia State University’s The Office of the Dean of Students to connect students to CARE services. CARE services include Georgia State resources or community resources for long-term food access, academic assistance, housing assistance, counseling support, nutrition support, and emergency assistance.   

“We are thankful for CareSource’s support of Panther Pantry because data shows that food insecurity can lead to lower rates of attendance and completion rates, and hunger related stress can lead to depression and other health problems,” said Michael Sanseviro, PH.D., Vice President for Student Engagement at Georgia State University. “The goal of Panther’s Pantry is to provide students with basic necessities and food assistance, so they are able to focus on what they are here for – their education.”  

In addition to a monetary contribution, CareSource is providing dental kits and water bottles that will be included in the hygiene and food bags.   

Pictures from the check presentation can be found here.  

Panther’s Pantry accepts donations of shelf-stable food, school supplies, period products and hygiene items. For more information on Panther’s Pantry or ways to donate click this link.