NMC launches campus-wide food drive

The Northern Marianas College will be hosting a campus-wide food drive for the Proa Pantry in Partnership with the Associated Students of the Northern Marianas College and the Office of Student Activities and Leadership. It will take place on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the college’s annual Trick-or-Treat event.

“As many of you are aware, food benefit distributions by the CNMI Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) have been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, leaving many families across our islands---and even some of our own students---without access to vital food support. Your contribution to the Proa Pantry during this time will make a real difference for students and families who are facing food insecurity,” NMC president Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero said.

He added, “The Proa Pantry provides free support to students in need. As we welcome families to campus for a fun and safe afternoon, I invite each of us—students, employees, alumni, and friends—to bring a donation and help keep our pantry stocked for the weeks ahead.”

NMC provided the following guidance on how to participate:

Bring an item (or a bag) to the event.

Collection bins will be stationed at the main entrances of offices along the Trick-or-Treat route and at OSAL, where the Proa Pantry is located.

Most-needed items (non-perishable, student-friendly, and easy to prepare):

Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, spam, beans), soups, and stews

Shelf-stable milk; canned fruits & vegetables

Rice, pasta, ramen, oatmeal, cereal, granola bars

Ready-to-eat meals and snacks (microwavable meals, fruit cups)

Please avoid expired items and opened packages

“If you cannot join the Trick-or-Treat event, but wish to contribute, you may drop off donations with OSAL or ASNMC any time during College business hours throughout the month of November. Departments and student organizations are also encouraged to coordinate team collections. OSAL and ASNMC will help with bin placement and pick-up,” he added.