Tennessee Tech Heather’s Box has been relocated to the third floor of Jere Whitson Hall to promote awareness of the free resource.
The box contains snacks and other shelf stable foods for students who might be dealing with food insecurity. Work Study Coordinator Latisha Scarlett said she moved it from the basement of Oakley Hall. Scarlett said the new third floor location will provide privacy for students using the box, while attracting new students in need.
“The students have a sense of security that they know that they can rely on this box,” Scarlett said. “Whenever they are hungry, whenever they need support for financial needs, and that’s another reason I’ve focused on this, cause I work in financial aid.”
Scarlett said moving the box reintroduces the resource to the student body, trying to bring more awareness to the student resource. Scarlett said the students she talks to have said the box has made an impact on their lives.
Scarlett said Scarlett said student schedules do not always allow for a sit down meal. Scarlett said nourished students do better in their studies. Scarlett said students need the assistance.
“It helps build stronger communities,” Scarlett said. “Students can get their basic needs met and can focus on expanding their future and doing better in their classes and focusing their energy on their education.”
Scarlett created Heather’s Box as a capstone project, as she earns a master’s degree. Scarlett said seven years ago, her project group planned to use the capstone assignment to address food insecurity on campus. Scarlett said a month before graduation and the completion of the project, her sister died. Scarlett said she dedicated the box in her sister’s honor.
Scarlett said other resources exist on campus, helping students access free food. Scarlett said Heather’s Box is just one of many available to students.
Scarlett said Oakley Hall plans to open a food pantry, hoping to feed food insecure students. Scarlett said the staff will launch a kickoff event next year, accepting donations to stock the pantry.
