American Legion Post 54 provides ongoing support to MSC Southeast students

On December 11, Lance Garrick, First Vice Commander of Leo C. Peterson American Legion Post 54, presented a generous donation to Minnesota State College Southeast. President Marsha Danielson gratefully accepted the donation on behalf of the college. The contribution will support The Pantry on the Red Wing campus.

Expressing appreciation for the college's proactive approach to addressing student food insecurities, Garrick emphasized the alignment of this initiative with the American Legion's core values, particularly the fourth pillar -- Children and Youth. The American Legion's other pillars of service and advocacy include Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, and Americanism.

Garrick confirmed the Legion's ongoing commitment to providing monthly donations to the Red Wing Campus Food Pantry for the remainder of the academic year.

"We want to be a part of connecting the community to the Legion, and supporting the students at Southeast is a great way to do that," he said. "It's a worthy cause and we hope that there are other organizations in Red Wing that would be interested in doing the same."

"A lot of students aren't comfortable talking about food insecurity," said Grace Horn, Red Wing Student Senate President. "I believe it's really important for us to have the Food Pantry as an opportunity for students to take food when they need it, no questions asked."

"Supporting students in this way is good for everyone, not just for younger students but for students of all ages," said Red Wing Student Senate Vice President Allie Haas. 

Individuals or organizations interested in joining efforts to assist the college in addressing student food insecurities are encouraged to reach out to MSC Southeast Dean of Students Kenney White at 507-453-1422 or [email protected].

Photo caption:  Lance Garrick, First Vice Commander of Leo C. Peterson American Legion Post 54, presented a generous donation to Dr. Marsha Danielson, president of Minnesota State College Southeast. From left: Greg Cady, MSC Southeast instructor and American Legion Member; Kenney White, MSC Southeast Dean of Students; Dr. Marsha Danielson; Lance Garrick; Grace Horn, Student Senate President; and Allie Haas, Student Senate Vice President.