A new care center at Lone Star College-University Park aims to provide students in need with resources including fresh food, according to an Aug. 26 news release from the college system.

The overview

A ribbon cutting for the center—which features a commercial refrigerator and freezer for fresh food and a lactation room—was held Aug. 23, according to the release.

The center will offer students:

• Eggs, milk, fresh produce and other food items
• Baby supplies
• Clothing
• School supplies
• Emergency assistance
• Informational resources

"By addressing these fundamental needs, we aim to cultivate a supportive environment that enables students to thrive and focus on achieving their educational goals," LSC-UP Interim President Matthew Dempsey said via the release.

Why it matters

Through a partnership with the Houston Food Bank's "Food for Change" scholarship program, LSC-UP’s Care Center can provide students with 120 total pounds of food—including 60 pounds of fresh food—per month, according to the release.

"Our vision is to develop a thriving community at LSC-UP where students, faculty and staff have access to the resources necessary to succeed," said Dominique Brown-Prevot, LSC-UP Care Center manager and interim director of student development, via the release.

What else?

LSC’s Student Government Association pursued a grant with the American Heart Association to fund “key enhancements” at the center, according to the release.

The LSC-UP Care Center joins existing LSC resources for students such as the Leo's Shelf food pantry and a partnership with Communities in Schools.