The UNA Center for Women’s Studies opened its Pride Pantry for Necessities Feb. 20.

Genna Bradley and Jean Ann Willis began the project as part of Leading Edge Institute’s nine-month program for female leadership in Alabama.

“This is something that’s been on my heart for a long time,” Willis said. “We know this will greatly impact and benefit those less fortunate within the community.”

Lynne Rieff, UNA director for women’s studies, said she hopes the pantry will be useful.

Willis said the pantry will follow certain rules.

“We are asking people only apply every two weeks with valid identification,” Willis said. “This is only for campus students, faculty and staff.”

Bradley said the pantry has been a product of factors coming together.

“In March of 2012 we were taught how to be better leaders,” Bradley said. “We were shown the need that is right here in Alabama and that we do need strong female leadership.”

Donations to the pantry came from various contributors and a grant received by Bradley and Willis for their program.

“People are more than welcome to donate by bringing items to the Women’s Center,” Bradley said. “We’ve been able to get a lot from couponing so far and we hope to begin setting up drives around campus to collect.”

Items in the room contain an array of products for both men and women, ranging from razors to oral care.

“We can keep it dignified, too,” said David Shields, vice president of student affairs. “No one needs to feel humiliated and no one needs to know why anyone is here.”

Rules, regulations and procedures for the pantry can be found in the Women’s Center.

“We need to continue to get this information out to the community,” Shields said. “If the sororities and fraternities knew this existed, they could significantly complement the cause. There are many people here on campus who struggle and have needs.”