Craven Community College (Craven CC) is proud to announce a generous $5,000 donation to the Panther Pantry from International Paper, a long-time partner and supporter of Craven’s efforts to combat food insecurity. These funds will be used to purchase a new deep freezer, stock frozen and nonperishable food items, and expand pantry services across all three campus locations: New Bern, Havelock, and the Volt Center.
"We believe that supporting our students means more than offering quality education—it means meeting them where they are, especially in times of need," said Zomar Peter, Craven CC Associate Vice President of Student Services. "That’s why the Panther Pantry plays a vital role in our mission to improve student persistence and completion. By addressing hunger as a physical and financial barrier, the pantry provides direct support to students who may be struggling to afford basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter."
Thanks to this support, the Panther Pantry will be able to fulfill more student requests and distribute more pounds of food than in previous years, which is an essential improvement as the demand continues to grow.
Over the years, International Paper has played a critical role in our pantry’s development. Their ongoing support has allowed the College to install freestanding shelving units, safely organize items in sealed containers, and most importantly, extend services beyond New Bern to reach students in Havelock and at the Volt Center. This expansion has made a tremendous difference for students who otherwise may not have had access to consistent food resources.
The need for the Panther Pantry is both real and urgent. In Craven County, over 14% of residents live below the poverty line, and more than 60% of students receive some form of financial assistance. Many students continue to struggle with basic needs, especially in the aftermath of major challenges like Hurricane Florence, Hurricane Dorian, and the COVID-19 pandemic—all of which caused a dramatic rise in the local cost of housing and living expenses.
The Panther Pantry is more than a food bank; it’s a student-centered service that reflects the College’s deep care for its community. By addressing hunger directly, the College empower students to focus on their studies, stay in school, and work toward a brighter future.
"We are deeply grateful to International Paper for their generosity and belief in our mission," added Peter. "Their partnership strengthens our ability to respond to the immediate needs of our students and supports disaster preparedness for the future."