黑料社 has received the 2025 Parish Ministry Grant from Catholic Social Services, providing $2,500 in support of Martin鈥檚 Market, the student food pantry located in Sansbury Hall.
Martin鈥檚 Market fulfills an important need on ODU鈥檚 campus by helping take away the worry of where a student鈥檚 next meal will come from when budgets are tight. The pantry allows students to focus on their studies and other challenges of college life without the added stress of food insecurity.
鈥淢artin鈥檚 Market is that extra hand reaching out to students, saying I鈥檝e got you,鈥� said Hajaratu Kamara, a student worker for the pantry.
The market stocks fresh, wholesome food that can accommodate a variety of dietary needs, along with personal hygiene items. For many students, especially those whose families live far away or who may not have a strong off-campus support system, the pantry provides an important resource and sense of stability.
Ezra Escudero, Director of Parish Engagement with Catholic Social Services, emphasized the importance of meeting community needs with compassion.
鈥淧eople from all different walks of life and circumstances can find themselves in need,鈥� Escudero said. 鈥淪ometimes it鈥檚 generational, sometimes it鈥檚 just a really bad storm鈥攍iterally or otherwise鈥攖hat brings someone to a point where they need help. It is always important to make sure that we as members of the Catholic community in Central Ohio can address that need with dignity and love, as the Gospel calls us to do.鈥�
Emily Strand, Director of Campus Ministry at ODU, said the grant will help ensure the pantry continues to support students.
鈥淚t is wonderful to feel the support of Catholic Social Services and the Columbus Catholic Diocese in this material way,鈥� Strand said. 鈥淭heir assistance helps us keep Martin鈥檚 Market strong for our student population. They are truly neighbors helping neighbors. We are so grateful to them.鈥�
Those interested in supporting Martin鈥檚 Market through a donation can contact Emily Strand at strande@ohiodominican.edu