EA awarded a United Way grant to support the Monster Exchange Pantry

By Lori Dugan/EAC

THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College has been awarded a one-year, $38,700 grant from the United Way of Graham & Greenlee Counties to support the Monster Exchange Pantry, which provides essential food, hygiene, and school supplies to EAC students.

The grant will support pantry operations during the 2025–2026 academic year, including wages for the pantry manager and assistant, fresh produce and healthy food options, and improved consistency in the availability of school supplies and personal hygiene items.

During the previous academic year, the Monster Exchange Pantry recorded nearly 7,000 student visits and served 595 individual students, including many first-generation and Pell-eligible students. The pantry plays a vital role in reducing food insecurity and supporting student success and retention.

“We are grateful for this continued support,” said Charmaine Chidester, EA’s director of grants. “We have countless students tell us this pantry enables them to stay in college when times are tough. We couldn’t do it without United Way and its supporters.”

By addressing basic needs, the Monster Exchange pantry helps students focus on coursework rather than the stress of food insecurity, thereby improving academic outcomes and persistence.

About EA

EA is a public community college dedicated to student success, access, and affordability. In addition to academic programs, EA provides comprehensive support services that address students’ basic needs, including food security, academic advising, and financial assistance. By removing barriers to completion, EA helps students stay enrolled, succeed academically, and achieve their educational and career goals.