George's Free General Store
Food insecurities and hunger are realities faced by many, including some students at Washington College. We established George's Free General Store to support students struggling with these issues. Operating without a dedicated budget, our pantry relies on donations from members of the Washington College community to keep our shelves stocked.
You can help hungry students by contributing pantry items or making monetary donations today.
Below is additional information about the most needed items, the location of the store, and how to make your contribution. George's General Store is equipped with a full-size refrigerator and a small freezer to accommodate perishable donations. We appreciate all donations, and when possible, we kindly ask that you consider contributing healthy, protein-rich items that are friendly to various dietary restrictions. Thank you!
Top Items Needed
- Pasta and Gluten-Free Pasta
- Instant Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Mac and Cheese
- Canned, Dried, or Packaged Fruits and Vegetables
- Nuts and Seeds
- Ramen and Yakisoba Noodles
- Breakfast Items: Pop-Tarts, Granola Bars, Cereal Boxes or Cups, Instant Oatmeal
- Soup
- Spreads: Peanut Butter, Jelly, Nutella
- Snacks: Chips, Crackers, Gluten Free Snacks
- Uncrustables
- Eggs
- Milk
- String Cheese
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Bread
- Individual Portioned Freezer Items: Burritos, Hot Pockets, Meals
- Canned or Packaged Meat and Fish: Chicken, Tuna, Sardines, Anchovies, or Salmon
- Canned Beans
- Nut Butters
- Protein Bars
- Coffee
- Tea
- Gatorade or Other Electrolyte Beverages
- Shelf Stable Milk: Dairy, Almond, Soy, Coconut
- Juice
- Bottled Water
- Sodas
- Body Wash, Soap
- Dental Care: Toothpaste, Brushes, Floss
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Shaving Cream/ Razors
- Lip Balm
- Makeup Remover Wipes
- Lotion
- Feminine Products
- Eco-Friendly Detergent
- Dish Soap
- Hand Sanitizer
- Pens, Pencils
- Notebooks
Additional Information
Take what you need and give when you can.
To uphold the spirit of the Honor Code, all users of the Free General Store will:
- Take only what you need — others also need the support, and this is a shared resource;
- Donate when and what you can, so that this effort can continue;
- Clean up after yourself and others, please! Wipe down the counters, do the dishes, clean out the sink, and sweep the floor after using the kitchen;
- Appliances/Cookware/Plates/Cutlery are to be used on site (do not take home);
- Leave constructive comments and suggestions so we can improve!
- And come as often as you need!
- Please note that we can't accept expired, damaged, opened, or used items.
- Please only donate items students would use.
- We don't accept clothing, books, or dishes.
- Ideally, items should be single-use, travel-size, or preportioned.
Who can use the pantry?
The pantry is available for any student at Washington College.
Who runs George's Free General Store?
The Hunger and Homelessness initiative sponsors George’s Free General Store, a food pantry that runs on donations from community members.
Where is George's Free General Store located?
The pantry is located in the Goose Nest within Hodson Hall Commons.
How can I donate?
Place items in the collection box located in the center of the main downstairs corridor of Hodson Hall Commons.
How can I donate monetarily?
Make a gift online. Select "Other" and type "George’s General Store."
Please contact Nicolle%20Moaney for more information.
How can I accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences?
Please consider donating items that reflect diverse dietary needs and lifestyle choices: carnivore, gluten-free, keto, nut-free, vegan, vegetarian.
What items are needed most?
Please see the lists above for ideas.
Local Food Pantry Resources are available throughout Kent County.
Emergency Fund Request
Students in need of financial assistance may request emergency funds using our online form.
Local Resources
- Apply for an EBT card
- Kent Food Pantry
Open every T/TH from 10 a.m. – noon - Share Meals App
Find shared meal swipes and events from your smartphone
Food Initiative
Food security begins by knowing what is available and how to prepare it. The Food Initiative provides resources and guidance for reconnecting with food.
Contact Us
Email georgespantryFREEwashcoll.