Lincoln University is figuring out how to get students where they need to go after canceling on-campus classes, and the university is working to expand food availability for students.
Carlos Graham, LU's chief of staff, said there were about 120 students left on campus, as of Monday.
LU originally had extended its spring break in light of concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus, then on Monday announced on-campus classes would not be held going forward - replaced with online classes starting Monday.
Some students are actively moving out to return to their hometowns or to stay with friends, Graham said Tuesday.
While "we can't do it for all," the university is providing transportation to airports for students who otherwise don't have a way to get to a flight, he said.
Graham said Marcus Chanay, LU's vice president for student affairs, was developing a schedule for students who live on campus to retrieve their personal items then return home.
Some students who live on campus do not have anywhere else to go, however.
"We will take those students by a case-by-case basis," Graham said, with the goal to consolidate all students who will remain on campus into one building where they can more easily be checked on.
The campus cafeteria is still operating, and brunch and dinner are available for students, he said.
Before the spread of the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 and the ensuing cancellations, LU had already been opening a food pantry on campus to help address food insecurity among students.
Graham said it was too early to give an opening date, but hopes the process can be sped up.
"We have a place identified for our food pantry," but some cosmetic work is needed, including on the carpet and shelves, and the food pantry has been approved by the Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, which will be providing some food, Graham said.
"We're very happy about this partnership," he said.
The food pantry will be on campus and will serve all students, including commuter students.
Most spaces on the Jefferson City campus are closed, including The Linc wellness center.
If student organizations choose, they may continue to meet online, Graham said.
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