**BOONE, N.C.** — Exciting news has emerged from the Appalachian State University (App State) community! The **Mofford and Giffin Food Hub** has officially opened its doors at the **Hickory campus**, marking a significant step forward in tackling food insecurity for Mountaineers. This welcoming food pantry was established through the generous support of local residents **David Mofford** ’09 and **Zac Giffin**, showcasing the power of community and collaboration.
“The Appalachian family has always stepped up to help each other in times of need, and with this contribution, we’re glad to help bring a vital service to the Hickory campus.”
— **David Mofford** ’09, App State Alumnus
Expanding the Food Pantry Network
The new food hub is part of App State’s **extensive campus food pantry network**, which includes the **Mountaineer Food Hub** managed by the **Office of Sustainability and Energy Management**. With **17 pantry locations** on the Boone campus and a satellite pantry at the **App State Academy at Middle Fork** in Walkertown, the university is committed to ensuring that no student goes hungry.
A special ceremony on **February 28** celebrated the opening of this crucial resource, marking the first dedicated space on the Hickory campus. The event drew attendees from across the community, including donors, university leaders, and members of App State’s Hickory family.
During the dedication, **App State Dean of University Libraries Sue Polanka** praised Mofford and Giffin, stating, “Both of them have wonderful, giving hearts, and today we honor them for their outstanding character and support of App State students.” Polanka has consistently advocated for initiatives aimed at reducing food insecurity, overseeing operations at the **food pantry in Belk Library and Information Commons** on the Boone campus, while library staff at the Hickory campus will manage the new food hub.
“When you are hungry, or worried about your next meal, it’s very hard to learn. App State’s food hubs help our students, faculty, and staff rise above these challenges, to eliminate the worry and help ensure our students can thrive.”
— **Sue Polanka**, Dean of University Libraries
**Tackling Food Insecurity Head-On**
Statistics reveal that food insecurity remains a pressing issue, with **over 44 million** Americans facing it at some point. In **North Carolina**, more than **1.2 million people**, roughly **11%** of the state’s population, experience food insecurity. Polanka emphasized this need, explaining, “When you are hungry, or worried about your next meal, it’s very hard to learn.” App State’s food hubs are designed to alleviate these concerns, ensuring that the entire community can access essential resources.
In 2024, the university’s network of food pantries distributed over **28,000 pounds of food**, welcoming more than **3,000 visitors** during just the fall semester. As Polanka noted, “David and Zac are helping extend this important work to our Hickory campus.”
**A Legacy of Giving**
Mofford and Giffin’s commitment to philanthropy is deeply rooted in their personal experiences. Mofford, a **Hickory native** and App State graduate, understands the vital role community plays in supporting students. As the former president of the **Student Government Association**, he witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by many and was inspired to give back.
Mofford attributes his sense of charity to his parents—long-time local business owners—who instilled in him the values of **philanthropy and community support**. “The Appalachian family has always stepped up to help each other in times of need,” Mofford expressed. “We’re hopeful that this will be a great resource for many years to come.”
Giffin, Mofford’s spouse, echoes similar sentiments. His career in philanthropy, notably with **Duke Health Development and Alumni Affairs**, reflects a shared commitment to community enhancement.
**Ways to Contribute**
If you’re inspired by this initiative, consider supporting the ongoing efforts at the Mountaineer Food Hub. **Gifts** can be made online through the **[Mountaineer Food Hub](https://givenow.appstate.edu/mealsformountaineers)**, or you can reach out to **Jeff McPherson** by emailing [email protected].
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Mountaineer Food Hub
App State’s network of campus food pantries helps meet the needs of Mountaineers. In addition to the Mofford and Giffin Food Hub at the App State Hickory campus, a food pantry can also be found in each of the following facilities on the Boone campus:
- Appalachian Hall
- Belk Library and Information Commons
- Chapell Wilson Hall
- D.D. Dougherty Hall
- East Hall
- Garwood Hall
- Hayes School of Music (Broyhill Music Center)
- Holmes Convocation Center
- I.G. Greer Hall
- Levine Hall of Health Sciences
- Miles Annas Student Services Building (houses three hubs)
- Rankin Science West
- Reich College of Education
- John E. Thomas Hall
- Walker Hall
A satellite food pantry is available at the App State Academy at Middle Fork, located in Walkertown.
