Ensuring no student has to choose between education and basic needs
The Concord-Afton Sunset Rotary Club is making a significant impact at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s South Campus in Concord, NC, by helping to establish and expand the student food pantry. This initiative addresses students’ food insecurity, providing access to essential food items and hygiene products. With a focus on ensuring no student has to choose between education and basic needs, the pantry has become a vital resource for the campus community.
Our Club has helped raise funds and collect over 1,500 pounds of food donations to stock the pantry to date. Local supporters’ donations and financial contributions have expanded the pantry’s ability to meet the growing demand. Recognizing the need to provide fresh and frozen food options, the Club successfully applied for a Rotary District Grant to purchase a freezer for the pantry. This addition allows students to access nutritious foods, enhancing the pantry’s impact.
The Concord-Afton Sunset Rotary Club’s involvement goes beyond donations—we’ve partnered with the college to build awareness, host food drives, and create a sustainable model for continued support. This collaboration exemplifies Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” highlighting the power of community-driven solutions to address local challenges.
Through these efforts, the Concord-Afton Sunset Rotary Club is helping to ensure that Rowan-Cabarrus Community College students have the support they need to succeed academically and personally. By tackling food insecurity head-on, the Club fosters a brighter future for students and strengthens our community.