Knights Corner Food Pantry Marks One Year of Impact

Aiken Technical College, along with Golden Harvest Food Bank and the Community Foundation for the CSRA, gathered on Wednesday, September 10, to celebrate the college's Knights Corner Food Pantry’s year of impact.

“This pantry represents the heart of what we strive for. Ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive, not just academically, but professionally,” said Melinda Rodgers, vice president of enrollment management and student affairs at Aiken Tech. “It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and generosity and the belief that no one should have to choose between food and their future. Thank you to everyone who helped bring this vision to life. Your dedication and support have made a lasting impact. We look forward to the many ways that this space will serve and uplift our campus community.”

Since opening in fall 2024, the Knights Corner Food Pantry has served more than 200 people, comprised of Aiken Tech students and their families. The pantry provides canned goods, grab-and-go snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and refrigerated foods. Students can also receive basic hygiene items through the food pantry.

Aiken Tech’s food pantry is Golden Harvest’s first Post Secondary Education Program in South Carolina and is its fourth such partnership overall.

“Research from the Food Research & Action Center shows that food insecurity among college students is nearly double the national average. That’s not just a statistic. It’s a reality for students right here in Aiken County,” said Jake Griffis, chief operating officer for Golden Harvest. “Setting up a pantry on campus is a direct way to address that need, making sure students have consistent, reliable access to nutritious food where they need it most.”

Food insecurity often has a ripple effect for students, notes Golden Harvest CEO Amy Breitmann.

“When students experience food insecurity, the impact reaches far beyond the dinner table. It adds stress and creates barriers that can pull them away from their studies. At Aiken Tech, this pantry will give students the nourishment and stability they need to stay focused on their education and their future,” stated Golden Harvest’s President and CEO Amy Breitmann.

Grant funds from the Community Foundation have also helped to support the food pantry initiatives, including repurposing an existing campus space for the food pantry.

“Today, we are celebrating a partner in Golden Harvest and in Aiken Tech. They’re the innovators,” said the Community Foundation’s President and CEO, Shell Berry, noting the collaboration it takes to come up with solutions to meet needs in our community. “So, (our focus is) how can we provide financial resources as well as intellectual capacity building support to make sure that things like this actually happen.”

The Knights Corner Food Pantry’s key initiatives over the past year have included:

• Food bags were distributed to Aiken Tech students and employees after Hurricane Helene.

• Turkey, hams, and other items were provided to help more than just students and their families enjoy a holiday meal.

• Students experiencing homelessness have access to the food pantry for ready-to-eat meals.

For more information about the food pantry and how you can support, please visit https://www.atc.edu/StudentAssistance.