WSSU receives $20K CVS Health grant to support food pantry, career closet

Winston-Salem State University has received a $20,000 grant from CVS Health to support its Rams Helping Rams Food Pantry and Career Closet.

The food pantry and career closet are located in the Allegacy Federal Credit Union Student Resource Center, which provides free food, clothes and wraparound services help students overcome barriers that interfere with their success.

Grant funds will be used to purchase food items such as canned meats, soup, pasta, peanut butter, rice and fresh fruits and vegetables; personal hygiene items such as soap, body wash, dental care products, razors and shaving cream; and professional and everyday clothing to include shoes, nursing scrubs and nursing shoes, coats, gloves, belts, hats and coats. Funding will also support childcare needs, such as diapers, baby wipes, baby food and formula.

“When you are doing good for your community, help has a way of finding you,” said Dr. Jon Kapell, interim associate vice chancellor of student affairs and dean of students. “That’s exactly how this grant came about.”

WSSU was initially contacted by a representative from Aetna, which is owned by CVS Health, to express interest in supporting the university’s Student Resource Center. Kapell and William Gibson, director of corporate/foundation engagement at WSSU, applied for financial assistance, resulting in the grant award.

“We are constantly making connections with partners who are willing to invest in our students, and this opportunity aligned perfectly with our mission,” Kapell said.

“This grant will directly support our efforts to remove basic needs barriers, allowing our students to reach their full potential. It ensures that students are properly dressed and have access to nutritious meals and provides the essential foundation they need to focus, thrive and succeed academically,” said Nyjae Johnson, case manager, who oversees the Student Resource Center.

The Allegacy Student Resource Center officially opened in January 2025 in a new location on campus, Room 207 of the Cleon F. Thompson Student Services Center. The renovated center spans nearly 1,000 square feet and offers a wide array of resources for students.

WSSU Rams Helping Hands Food Pantry and The Career Closet connects students to resources addressing food insecurity, childcare, housing assistance, transportation, healthcare access and other essential needs, advancing the university’s commitment to student success and social mobility.

Watch this short video to see the impact of the student resource center.