Healthy Market Combats Campus Hunger
By Taris Kendricks
Staff Writer
The Healthy Market at Harold Washington College, in partnership with the Greater Food Depository, offers free food and a welcoming space to students and staff, addressing food insecurity and fostering a sense of community on campus.
“Healthy Market partnerships with Greater Food Depository,” said Sushma Kher. Students can access the market on a day-to-day basis, open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Students are allowed to visit twice a month, but can return if they need more. The Healthy Market receives food deliveries every other Monday.
“We’re grateful for work study” said Kher. Students can shop for themselves and choose their own items. The market also has seasonal holiday meals, including Thanksgiving.
Any student who is taking classes at HWC can go to the market, which was founded in 2018. Staff members strive to keep the market open as long as possible, aiming to meet students' basic needs during their visits.
Various foods offered include canned goods, various forms of protein, such as chicken, hamburgers, catfish nuggets, rice, pasta and beans. The market also gives out potatoes and onions. During summer, the market remains available by appointment only; students must contact staff who will then meet them on campus.
Faculty members express their gratitude for the partnership with Greater Food Depository, appreciating the valuable resource it provides for the college community.
HWC Counselor Mackenzie Viglioti shares that she doesn't feel food insecure, as she is grateful to earn a living wage. However, she acknowledges that she is just one paycheck away from experiencing food insecurity. Viglioti learned about the Healthy Market through her previous work with Greater Food Depository, where she also had the opportunity to work shifts at the market.
“I’m glad they’re providing options and getting feedback from students. The Healthy Market is attendant to support students and staff in addressing food insecurity,” said Viglioti.
