South Bend - Meeting Students' Most Basic Need

WHAT IS POD 7?

During the Fall of 2016 the Ivy Tech South Bend campus opened POD 7, also known as the Resource and Referral Center, in response to an increased awareness that many of our students struggle to meet their basic needs.  This includes maintaining proper nutrition, heating their homes, transportation, health insurance, counseling, etc.  Over the last year, POD 7 has served nearly 1,000 students who are in need of assistance. 

FOOD PANTRY:

A primary area of concern for students is food insecurity. If students are not able to afford nutritious food, their physical health, mental well-being, and ability to perform in the classroom is at risk.  Therefore, POD 7 opened a food pantry to better serve students. One student who utilized this resource is Krystal Pyott. She is a hard-working mother of two who is pursuing a degree in Human Services at the South Bend campus. While in school, Krystal’s husband was diagnosed with cancer and kidney failure. Due to mounting bills and the need to support her family, Krystal had to work longer hours. As a result, she no longer qualified for government assistance to help feed her family. That is when she turned to POD 7’s food pantry, which allowed her to come in for a family meal twice a month. POD 7 staff also provided Krystal with information about other area food banks that could help her family during this difficult time.

CONTINUED SUPPORT:

Together, we must continue to support the efforts of POD 7 at Ivy Tech South Bend.   By meeting students’ basic needs, it will allow them to thrive and perform at higher levels inside and outside the classroom. Ultimately, students like Krystal will be able to reach their goal of completing a college degree, enter the local workforce, and make a significant impact on our community for many years to come. Please join us in supporting the food pantry on Giving Tuesday!