Kroger, SSU partner to combat student food insecurities during Black History Month

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -Kroger’s Atlanta Division is partnering with Savannah State University to address food insecurity among students, donating nearly $35,000 in nonperishable food items and gift cards to five historically Black colleges and universities across the Southeast.

Food insecurity remains a pressing challenge for Savannah State students. According to a 2024 U.S. Government Accountability Office report, nearly 38 percent of HBCU students experience food insecurity.

“Zero Hunger | Zero Waste is Kroger’s mission to end hunger and waste in the places we call home,” said Tammie Young-Ennaemba, head of communications and public affairs for Kroger’s Atlanta Division. “Students are here to build a brighter future, but unfortunately for many, hunger becomes a barrier.”

The effort aligns with Kroger’s “Zero Hunger | Zero Waste” commitment and represents the company’s continued support for historically Black institutions in the Southeast. The partnership also benefits Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina; Paine College in Augusta, Georgia; Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama; and the Atlanta University Center.

The “Pack the Pantry” event at Savannah State is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the King Frazier Student Center on the Savannah State campus.

Kroger associates will volunteer alongside students and faculty to stock the university’s food pantry, marking the second consecutive year the supermarket chain has hosted the initiative.