BioCT and CT State Gateway Partner to Support Students Through Campus Cupboard Food Drive

When Bailey began her summer internship with BioCT, she knew she wanted to explore what it meant to make a difference. By the end of the summer, that interest had helped inspire a campaign supporting students at CT State Gateway.

Through a new collaboration between BioCT and CT State Gateway, Bailey had the opportunity to help develop a food donation campaign benefiting the Gateway Campus Cupboard, turning an internship project into a hands-on lesson in community engagement.

Bailey came to her internship with an interest in helping others and a desire to better understand the different ways she could make an impact. At the same time, BioCT was exploring opportunities to deepen its connection with the New Haven community. Through a BioCT representative who serves on the CT State Gateway President’s Advisory Board, a conversation began about how the two organizations could work together to support students.

That conversation led to the Gateway Campus Cupboard, which provides students with access to food and other essential items in a welcoming and confidential environment.

Soon, an idea began to take shape: engage members of the BioCT community in supporting the Campus Cupboard through a food donation campaign.

Working collaboratively with Gateway, Bailey helped develop the campaign concept and bring it to the BioCT community, encouraging members to participate and contribute. The effort resulted in donations of canned goods to help replenish the Campus Cupboard and ensure students continue to have access to an important campus resource.

For Bailey, through this experience she was able to see an idea move from its earliest conversations to implementation and experience firsthand how collaboration can turn a desire to help into meaningful action.

For Gateway, the partnership reflects the important role community organizations can play in supporting the student experience. When partners bring their ideas, networks and willingness to engage, they can help strengthen the resources and sense of community surrounding Gateway students.

What began as an internship project ultimately became something larger: an opportunity for an emerging professional to explore the meaning of service, for BioCT to strengthen their connection with the community, and for Gateway students to see another example of a community invested in their success.

Want to Be Part of the Impact?

You can help support the Gateway Campus Cupboard and ensure students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Interested in contributing food or essential items?
Email: larue.pierce@ctstate.edu

Want to make a financial contribution?
[Make a Gift →]