Electric Transmission Texas Offers Support to TAMIU’s Dusty’s Food Pantry for Students

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) students will benefit from a $1,000 donation made to Dusty’s Food Pantry provided by Electric Transmission Texas (ETT).

Members of ETT presented the donation Tuesday, Sept. 15. Through this contribution, Dusty’s Food Pantry will use the funds to assist students who may be facing food insecurity by providing a temporary supplemental supply of non-perishable goods.

“We believe in supporting the educational sectors within our service area,” said Tony Arce, Jr., Manager of External Affairs at AEP Texas and ETT representative. “It’s important to support students as they experience the unique challenges brought on by the ongoing pandemic,” said Arce.

TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz said generosity like that shown by Electric Transmission Texas is much appreciated.

“Gifts of support like that generously provided by Electric Transmission Texas help buoy our students and enable their continued educational journey here. Knowing that their pursuit is supported by friends of the University is a tremendous incentive to not only continue, but to complete their degree plan,” Dr. Arenaz explained.

Initially launched in 2017, Dusty’s Food Pantry provides daily access to non-perishable goods. Members of the University community, including fellow students, faculty, staff and administration regularly supply donations to help support the Pantry.

“Food insecurity is a real issue that affects our student body. Through Dusty’s Food Pantry, we can assist students and help them succeed. Our University community truly demonstrates a spirit of service and empathy as Dustdevils help fellow Dustdevils,” said Mariana Rodríguez, Student Emergency Services coordinator.  

Throughout the Spring 2020 semester, 231 students were able to access the pantry, resulting in over 2,142 items given to students in need. Over 70 percent of those students who used the food pantry were unemployed, and over 60 percent of Dusty’s Food Pantry users are first-generation college students.

This Fall 2020 semester, students were surveyed after their trip to Dusty’s Food Pantry to gauge their experience visiting the pantry. Some 41 percent of individuals surveyed noted that the pantry was their main source of food. Additionally, in place as part of the University’s ongoing COVID-19 pandemic response.

To receive assistance, currently enrolled students submit an online form available at https://www.tamiu.edu/foodpantry/. Upon successful completion, they can schedule an appointment with TAMIU’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Engagement by calling 956.326.2265, or the Office of Housing and Residence Life at 956.326.3210.

Dusty’s Food Pantry remains open to currently enrolled students and is presently housed at the Student Center and University Village. Supplies are available for pickup Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

For more information on making a donation to Dusty’s Food Pantry, contact the Office of Student Conduct and Community Engagement at 956.326.2265, via email at scce@tamiu.edu or visit www.tamiu.edu/scce. 

The University’s online COVID-19 Response Center is updated regularly and includes an expansive FAQ, quick links, student resources, official information resources and much more. 

TAMIU students will benefit from a $1,000 donation made to Dusty’s Food Pantry provided by Electric Transmission Texas. Present at the check presentation were (standing, from L-R) Mariana Rodriguez, Tony Arce Jr., Dr. Pablo Arenaz, and Mayra Hernandez.