Seawolves participate in grocery BINGO

COURTESY // canva.com

Students gather in the W&B room to participate in a BINGO game where they could win groceries and assorted toiletries.

The fall semester is now in full swing and Sonoma State students are adjusting to adulthood. This involves budgeting finances and making frequent runs to the grocery store. With the rise of inflation, groceries are becoming more expensive than ever before. According to the USDA, in 2022, food prices are predicted to increase anywhere between 8.5% and 9.5%. To help address the financial issue at hand, while also keeping spirits high and promoting an entertaining environment, SSU staff members hosted a Grocery Bingo. 

The event took place on Sept.17 in the W&B room located on campus. All Seawolves were welcomed to grab a bingo board and take a chance on winning groceries which ranged from different foods to assorted toiletries. Morgan Newens, one of the callers, which are the individuals who randomly select what numbers are called in bingo, said she thought the event wasn't just a good social gathering but also a big help to those students on campus who can't drive to the grocery store. The closest store is over a half hour walk away from Sonoma State. 

Transportation is not the only problem, some students just do not have the financial means to buy enough groceries. A Sonoma State student offered their thoughts on the Grocery Bingo saying that the event was a “last minute miracle,” they proceeded to say that books this semester were expensive and since they live off campus and commute daily, gas was also something to take into account when budgeting. 

Sonoma State is attempting to help out its students as much as possible. Grocery Bingo seemed to be one of the most attended events since the beginning of the 2022 Semester, bringing in all sorts of students who live on and off campus. A group of Seawolves rushed to grab a table right after their dance rehearsal saying they weren't gonna miss up on a “fantastic opportunity.”

After an hour, the last bingo match came to an end with all of the groceries claimed and a majority of participants having something to take home. There will be other opportunities for students to get their hands on free groceries and other supplies throughout the semester. Grocery Bingo was only one of the first events to help those in need, campus staff organizes various events and gives contributions to seawolves yearly. 

Giveaways are created via social media, welcoming all to participate without having to leave the comforts of their rooms. And for those who prefer not to partake in social events, there is a distribution of groceries once in a while through Lobo’s Pantry.  Lobo’s Pantry provides help by providing nutritious foods for those experiencing food insecurity and invites students to enroll in the CalFresh food program assistance. 

The pantry is supplied by Grocery Outlet and other sources, taking any donations they can get. Lobo’s Pantry is located in Zinfandel Village.  During these hard times, Seawolves are being provided with any support they can get especially when it comes to getting food on the table.