University Life

Softball Teams Up with Patriot Pantry to Fight Food Insecurity on Campus

John Eichler and a female student stand behind an outdoor donation table displaying a clear plastic bin labeled "Patriot Pantry Donations," a case of Cup Noodles, Patriot Pantry informational signage, and a "Gowns for Grads" flyer. Trees and a brick building are visible in the background.
John Eichler, Coordinator for Basic Needs Services for the Student Support and Advocacy Center, a George Mason student staff a Patriot Pantry donation table outside the softball complex during the April 11 doubleheader against Saint Louis. Photo by Dave Ashe.

 

This article originally appeared on GoMason.com.

This past weekend, George Mason softball claimed an impressive series win against the Saint Louis Billikens. Beyond the Patriots’ performance on the field, Saturday’s doubleheader also featured a meaningful collaboration with the Patriot Pantry.

Members of the George Mason softball team in black uniforms and the Saint Louis Billikens in blue uniforms pose together in two rows in front of a white charter bus outside the softball complex on a sunny spring afternoon.
The George Mason and Saint Louis softball teams pose together following their April 11 doubleheader at the George Mason Softball Complex. The Saint Louis Billikens contributed donations to the Patriot Pantry during their visit. Photo by Dave Asche.

On Saturday, April 11, the Patriot Pantry was on-site collecting donations. The organization supports George Mason University students facing food insecurity by providing access to non-perishable food and hygiene items, while also raising awareness about the prevalence of food insecurity on campus, the challenges students face in meeting basic needs, and the resources available to support their overall well-being. Operated through the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC) within the Division of University Life, the pantry relies heavily on community contributions to keep its shelves stocked.

Throwing out the ceremonial first pitch for game one against the Billikens was John Eichler, Coordinator for Basic Needs Services for SSAC. In a show of sportsmanship and community support, the Saint Louis softball team also contributed donations while visiting for the crucial conference matchup.

Eichler throws out the ceremonial first pitch before George Mason softball’s doubleheader against Saint Louis on April 11. Members of the Patriots softball team look on from behind home plate. Photo by Dave Asche.

George Mason softball thanks everyone in attendance who helped contribute to this meaningful cause and looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact within the George Mason community.