Kuraray and San Jac partner to fight food insecurity

A last-minute request turned into a meaningful donation July 11, when more than 2,400 cans of food arrived at San Jacinto College’s Central Campus Marketplace for students experiencing food insecurity. 

Kuraray America Inc. employees collected the canned goods through a food drive, but when original plans for the donation fell through, the company needed a community partner that could accept a weekend delivery on short notice. 

“With an established relationship between Kuraray America and San Jac, the SJC Marketplace was a natural fit,” said Murray Adelstein, KAI senior human resources learning and development specialist. 

The response from San Jac was immediate. 

“We were thrilled to step in and make it happen for our campus pantries,” said Imelda Rodriguez, SJC Marketplace director. 

A few days later, the donation became a shared effort. The company’s employees loaded the canned goods into their own vehicles and delivered them to the Marketplace, where San Jac process technology students Melanie Luevano, Julian Nieto, and Jason Payne gave up part of their Saturday to help unload. 

“Their readiness to give up a weekend to support their peers reflects the incredible spirit of community that defines San Jac,” Rodriguez said. 

For Nieto, the opportunity was especially meaningful. 

“It felt good working with others, especially helping out with something beneficial to my fellow students,” Nieto said. 

The willingness to adjust plans and pitch in from both sides reflected the spirit behind the donation. 

“When circumstances changed, our employees embraced the opportunity to adjust the plan and personally help ensure the donation reached those who could benefit from it,” Adelstein said. “Their flexibility, teamwork, and dedication to supporting the community truly reflect KAI’s values.”

KAI employees continued collecting canned goods through the end of July, ultimately adding another 250 cans and bringing the company’s total donation to 2,650. 

The donation came at a time when the need remains significant for San Jac students. For many, an empty cupboard can be as significant an obstacle to completing a degree as anything they encounter in the classroom. 

“Donations directly help alleviate food insecurity on campus, ensuring our students can focus on their education without worrying about where their next meal comes from,” Rodriguez said. 

The SJC Marketplace is available to all students currently enrolled in classes and provides free groceries while connecting them with other support services College-wide. 

Through a partnership with the Houston Food Bank, students can receive up to 30 pounds of free groceries each week. Available items vary and can include food, toiletries, and household necessities. 

During the regular semester, the Central Campus Marketplace serves between 80 and 100 households each week. The KAI donation will help replenish SJC Marketplace supplies and provide additional resources for San Jac students who need them. 

For Rodriguez, the donation is a reminder of what every contribution means for students. 

Learn more about the San Jac Marketplace and how you can donate

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About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than 1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020 and 2026. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s. San Jacinto College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.