Doane University pantry reports increasing food insecurity among students

CRETE, Neb. (KLKN) — The Tiger Paw Pantry supports dozens of students at Doane University as food costs rise.

The pantry has seen more and more students come in recently.

“Fifty percent of college students are reporting some type of food insecurity,” said Andreea Baker, Doane’s director of health and wellness.

She said the need at Doane has increased 30% to 40% since the start of 2025.

The pantry supplies nonperishable food for students to take as needed, along with hygiene products like tampons and bodywash.

Tiger Paw recently moved and will be undergoing some renovation to potentially provide frozen and refrigerated goods in the future.

“We know that if students’ basic needs aren’t being met then they aren’t able to be as academically successful,” Baker said.

If you want to help stock the pantry, you can donate here or take food and supplies directly to the pantry at the Perry Campus Center in room 140.