Campus Groups Rally to Support Klemis Kitchen

This time of year, the giving spirit is everywhere, and that includes Georgia Tech. One way faculty and staff members are supporting students this season is through Klemis Kitchen, Georgia Tech’s on-campus food pantry. 

On Monday, Nov. 17, the Georgia Tech Women’s Club (GTWC) gathered to assemble 250 care packages for students who use Klemis Kitchen. The kitchen serves students in need by providing groceries and meals, and works to reduce food waste on campus. 

Packages included easy-to-prepare meals and snacks, Chick-fil-A gift cards, and information about the Georgia Tech Women’s Club scholarship program. Members also collected food items and monetary donations, totaling about $500. 

“We have been active supporters of Klemis Kitchen since 2019 and are excited to be able to provide a little TLC before final exams,” said Judy Willis, Responsible Conduct of Research program advisor for Graduate and Postdoctoral Education and GTWC board member.  

Meanwhile, the School of Cybersecurity and Privacy (SCP) kicked off the season of giving with $2,000 in food donations to Klemis Kitchen. 

"We are so grateful for this incredibly generous donation from the School of Cybersecurity and Privacy,” said Steven Fazenbaker, program director of Students’ Temporary Assistance and Resources, of which Klemis Kitchen is a part. “There are over 300 students with access to Klemis Kitchen, and this donation will go far in making sure these students have the food they need.” 

Mary Helen Hayes, SCP assistant director of financial operations, organized the food drive and spent October raising funds. 

“When I learned that about 10% of Georgia Tech students experience food insecurity and 15% often prioritize working over academics and activities just to afford food, the Klemis Kitchen food drive became my focus,” she said. 

Klemis Kitchen accepts volunteers and donations on an ongoing basis; learn more at star.studentlife.gatech.edu/klemis-kitchen.