Volunteers at Blue Hen Bounty, a campus area food pantry supporting food insecure University of Delaware students, estimate that they assisted more than 200 students in the fall 2017 semester alone. Individuals in need have several pick-up options, including weekday mornings and Wednesday afternoons, and can also reach out via email to bluehenbounty@gmail.com to schedule an appointment that is convenient for them. Students are asked to bring their student ID only to verify that they are a member of the community. Those who would like to donate time or food are also encouraged to reach out.

Blue Hen Bounty is located within St. Thomas Episcopal Church at 276 South College Avenue in Newark, just south of the University Visitors Center. It was formed in 2015 by a group of concerned UD students that continue to organize, stock and run the program. Blue Hen Bounty largely receives its donations from its home parish, but is able to accept donations from other sources, which are then distributed to UD students. In the last year, supplies have expanded from nonperishable foods to include necessary toiletries such as shampoo, soap, and feminine hygiene products.

“We are extremely grateful for this program and the partnership with the Episcopal Campus Ministry,” said Adam Cantley, interim dean of students. “Each year, the Office of the Dean of Students has students referred to them that are facing food insecurity. The Blue Hen Bounty has given us a local and student-focused referral option for those in need.”

Blue Hen Bounty is open for walk-ins throughout the semester at 276 South College Ave. The parish’s administrative assistant is able to distribute and accept supplies as needed Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Blue Hen Bounty is also open Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Students coming to pick up supplies are asked to bring their student ID for verification. Those in need, as well as those who would like to donate to Blue Hen Bounty, can also reach out via email to bluehenbounty@gmail.com to schedule an appointment that is convenient for them.