PirateQ 
The PSC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Panhandle Conference season kicked off on Jan. 11 against Chipola College with a bit of love and support of the Pirates CARE food pantry, offering free entry to spectators who donated non-perishable food items, canned goods, rice, pasta, snacks, or hygiene products.
Hailey Lotz, Executive Director for Development, Alumni and Athletics, said, “We try to ‘Pack the Pantry’ at least once a year and sometimes more, with various sports teams… Those are our students, too, and we understand that not all our athletes are on a full scholarship. Some of our athletes pay rent and have part-time jobs, and we know they utilize [the Pirate’s CARE] space. We see first-hand how impactful it is, so we always want to help Pack the Pantry.”
Spectators not only donated to the Pirates CARE food pantry, but they also supported PSC’s basketball teams in their Conference opening games.
Women’s basketball took a tough loss from Chipola College, 56-65, in the Panhandle Conference opener. The Pirates have already set their sights on their next home contest on Pirate Day, January 18, at 2:00 p.m. against Conference rivals Northwest Florida State College Raiders.
PSC Men’s Basketball stepped up for the win over the Chipola, with a final score of 62-50, and demonstrated their strength in rebounding, a crucial factor against the formidable Indians.
Pirates CARE also took the win, with donations from the community supporting PSC students. Jessica Johnson, Pirates CARE Director of Wellness Services, said, “Our partnership with PSC Athletics through Pack the Pantry has been phenomenal. Their support, our partnership with Manna Food Bank, and the generosity of our local community add deep value and sustainability to our food pantry program.”
For those interested in further contributing to the Pirates CARE food pantry, Johnson shared that the most-needed items at this time are quick grab-and-go meals/items (microwavable), protein (canned chicken, tuna, peanut butter, beans, pasta), and fruit. The staff there also have the ability to store some frozen items (vegetables, family meals, etc.).
For more information about dropping off donations, applying to use the food pantry and other information, students and donors can check out Pirates CARE Food Pantry or call (850) 484-1759.