Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Swoop’s Pantry, an on-campus resource that has played a significant role in addressing student hunger. Since its opening, Swoop’s Pantry has recorded over 63,000 visits and distributed more than 930,000 pounds of groceries to students in need.

The anniversary event will take place on September 4 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the John and Angie Sabo Swoop's Food Pantry Room in Pierce Hall, Ypsilanti. The program includes remarks from Eastern Michigan University President James Smith, pantry founder Haley Moraniec, and a student sharing their personal experience with the service. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the facility, meet staff members, and learn about available services.

“College can be financially draining for students, and Swoop’s has been able to fill the void by providing necessities that help them focus their energy on academics,” said Julie Harkema, faculty advisor for the Pantry. “It's an honor to witness the longevity of such a meaningful initiative that has had a lasting impact on our EMU community.”

National studies show that food insecurity affects about one in four college students across the United States. Swoop’s Pantry was established in 2015 as a response to this issue and now offers not only food but also school supplies, household items, clothing options—including professional attire—and free graduation gown rentals.

“Swoop's Pantry has been a real lifesaver for me this year,” said pantry user. “There were times I honestly didn’t know how I was going to afford groceries, and having this resource made such a huge difference. It’s not just about the food, it’s the sense of support and care that helped me keep going. I'm so thankful to everyone who donates and helps keep it running. You’ve made a tough time feel a little less heavy.”

Each day during the academic year, Swoop’s distributes more than 800 pounds of groceries—totaling over 170,000 pounds annually—and serves around 80 students daily. These efforts are supported by public donations and partnerships with organizations like Food Gatherers, Kroger, and EDining.

Beyond grocery distribution, Swoop’s provides resources ranging from casual clothing to business attire for interviews or internships as well as free rentals of graduation regalia for students facing financial challenges.

“Though the Pantry can’t satisfy every need, it’s an essential supplement for students seeking basic goods,” said Colton Ray, graduate assistant for the Pantry and social work student. “Thanks to our local partners,  donors, and dedicated team members, we’ve been able to continue this tradition and will be here for many years to come.”

For additional information or ways to contribute to Swoop's Pantry programs at Eastern Michigan University visit their website.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is among Michigan's oldest public universities with nearly 13,000 enrolled students pursuing degrees across more than 300 programs through various colleges including Arts & Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering & Technology; Health & Human Services; as well as its graduate school.