Auburn looks to defend SEC Food Fight title

After winning the inaugural competition in 2021, Auburn University’s Campus Food Pantry has joined the Schools of the Southeastern Conference, or SEC, Food Fight for a second year to raise funds, food and hygiene items and awareness of the need on college campuses.

From April 8-21, the Auburn Family can support the Campus Food Pantry in the fight against food insecurity and help Auburn beat its SEC rivals.

“The SEC Food Fight was created because all of our campus food pantries struggle to get donations at times,” said Sarah Grace Kaschak, Auburn Cares coordinator. “I think especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an increase in need and a decline in donations.”

As the reigning champion, Auburn is the favorite to bring home the title again this year, but even more, Kaschak hopes the drive will fill the food pantry’s shelves.

“Food insecurity on Auburn’s campus affects about one in three students. So, it is definitely a prevalent issue here,” she said. “The SEC Food Fight is a great opportunity for us to remind people that the food pantry serves a vital need on campus and that we need their help to continue meeting that need.”

Auburn’s food pantry has been on campus since 2011 but recently relocated to a central location in Lupton Hall, increasing ease of access and awareness among students.

“We’ve seen a dramatic uptick in student traffic since we moved, which is wonderful,” Kaschak said. “That means students who need us are finding us more easily, but it also means we’re having even more difficulty keeping the shelves full.”

Although the SEC Food Fight highlights the issue of food insecurity with a good-natured conference competition, the Campus Food Pantry battles this issue year-round.

“Our ultimate goal during the SEC Food Fight, and throughout the year, is to engage with the entire Auburn Family on the issue of food insecurity,” Kaschak said. “We want students in need to feel safe and comfortable seeking help, and we hope the Auburn Family will continue partnering with us as we combat this issue on our campus. We can’t do it without them.”

Support the Campus Food Pantry in the SEC Food Fight. Food and hygiene items can also be dropped off at the Auburn Cares office in the Melton Student Center.