March 26, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SALINAS, CA - Hartnell College proudly announces the grand opening of El Mercado, an on-campus market set to launch on April 1, 2024. Developed by the Hartnell College SOUL Center (Office of Basic Needs), El Mercado is an innovative initiative designed to provide students with free, easy access to essential groceries, personal care items, and basic necessities throughout the year.
In light of the increasing recognition of the vital connection between student well-being
and academic achievement, issues like food insecurity and lack of access to basic
needs have been identified as significant obstacles to student learning. Hartnell
College is actively addressing these challenges with practical solutions to support
student success.
Mario Flores, Director of Basic Needs at Hartnell College, stated, "El Mercado and our SOUL Center symbolize more than just a space—they embody our compassion and collective commitment to ensuring all Hartnell College students have their basic life needs met. This initiative underscores our dedication to fostering an environment where every student can flourish."
El Mercado is open to all currently enrolled students and aspires to be more than a food pantry. Its aim is to offer a supportive, dignified space that promotes student success, health, and well-being. Mimicking a conventional grocery store, El Mercado will offer a wide range of fresh produce, meat, dairy, non-perishables, hygiene products, school supplies, clothing, and childcare items.
Michael Gutierrez, President/Superintendent of Hartnell College, emphasized, "At Hartnell College, we view access to nutritious food and basic necessities as a critical element for academic success. El Mercado reflects our dedication to creating a nurturing academic environment, free from the distractions of basic needs insecurities."
The community is invited to celebrate this significant achievement at the grand opening, which will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the facility, and speeches from college officials and students.
Event Details:
- Grand Opening of El Mercado
- Date: Monday, April 1, 2024
- Time: 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Location: Student Center, Building C, Room 132, Hartnell College, 411 Central Avenue, Salinas, California 93901
For more information on El Mercado, the SOUL Center, and Hartnell College's supportive initiatives, please visit our website.
About Hartnell College: Hartnell College, located in California's Salinas Valley, is dedicated to meeting the educational and workforce development needs of its communities. Committed to student learning, achievement, and success, Hartnell College offers a wide range of academic and career pathways for students.
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