Student needs pantry available to all Finlandia students

Finlandia University’s mission has always been about making college as accessible as possible for students. Part of that mission in today’s iteration of the university is The Table, a pantry available to all students that provides food and other basic essentials to students in need.

“In order for a student to maximize personal growth while at FinnU, they need to have all of their basic needs met,” Rev. Soren Schmidt said. “At The Table, we make sure that no student is left without those needs met. The Table is core to who we are. I hope all students know they are invited to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Hours for The Table (Fall 2017)

The Table is open Monday through Wednesday at the hours below, and can also be opened by appointment by contacting Rev. Schmidt (soren.schmidt@finlandia.edu, (906) 487-7239)

• Mondays, 2 – 5 p.m.
• Tuesdays, 1:30 – 3:45 p.m.
• Wednesdays, 2 – 4 p.m.

About The Table

The mission of “The Table” is to fight hunger and help provide for basic needs of Finlandia students by offering items to those in need, and at the same time, to further develop a sense of health and wellness through providing information, guest speakers, cooking/healthy living lessons, a place to prepare food and gather together in meal and thanks. “The Table” is designed to provide students nutritional food and basic needs (toiletries, etc.) in times of need. “The Table” aligns itself with additional services and resources on campus that promote the overall well-being of its students.

“The Table” is more than a food pantry. It is many things. It is a place for everyone.

It is located in the Campus Ministry Center, in the lower level of the Chapel of St. Matthew. A former office space has been cleaned, repainted, and new food grade shelving has been installed.

Donations Wanted

Finlandia University’s “The Table”, welcomes drop-off donations during regular Campus Ministry hours. “The Table” is equipped to distribute non-perishable food items (as well as a limited supply of perishable food items) and select personal care and basic needs items to Finlandia students. We have only limited facilities to safely store perishable food items and therefore any items as such will be quickly announced for fast pick up.

Drop-Off Locations

• Jutila Center Front Desk
• Maki Library
• In front of TRiO Student Support Services
• Finlandia Hall front desk
• Mannerheim Central

“The Table” strives not only to provide for basic needs of the students, but to also do this with a conscious effort to focus on providing healthier food and living options. Therefore, while all donations are generously accepted, we also seek to educate others and gather in items that provide for safer and healthier living, such as (but not limited to): organic, natural, fresh, low sodium, low preservatives and added sugars, etc.

Learn more by visiting finlandia.edu/thetable or by contact the director of the program, Rev. Soren Schmidt.