The Students’ Temporary Assistance and Resources (STAR) program recently opened a new Klemis Kitchen outpost in the center of campus. Klemis Kitchen is Georgia Tech’s on-campus food bank committed to helping students decrease food insecurity and supporting those with dietary restrictions.  

All outpost locations offer different options: 

• Klemis 489: Located in Room 489 of the Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons, this outpost is stocked with food items that can be eaten on the go with minimal preparation, such as protein bars, ready-to-eat sandwiches, and snacks. 
• Grace House Community Fridge: Located underneath the back deck of Grace House (182 Fifth St., between Techwood and Fowler on East Campus), this outpost is similar to the original Klemis Kitchen. 
• Graduate Student Lounge: Located on the third floor of the John Lewis Student Center (accessible to graduate students only). 

The first outpost opened in Spring 2022 in Clough Commons. This location is set up in a breakroom style with limited fresh and shelf-stable food items. It was intended for students to grab a quick meal or snack during breaks between classes. The latest outpost, in the John Lewis Student Center, was established in partnership with Auxiliary Services, Tech Dining, Campus Kitchens, the Georgia Tech Library, and the Student Center.  

The Klemis Kitchen program has come a long way since the 24/7 food pantry opened in the Biotech Quad in February 2015. It is named in honor of Tommy Klemis, a former Georgia Tech student and owner of Tech’s longtime favorite, Junior’s Grill. The popular Tech eatery was open from 1948 to 2011, first located at the corner of North Avenue and Techwood Drive, then relocated to the Bradley Building in 1994. Today, the Whistle Bistro occupies the space. Georgia Tech’s mission to address food insecurity on campus started with a tribute to Klemis by naming the food pantry after him. Approximately 250 – 275 students access the pantry each semester.  

The outposts serve the campus community in two ways: with scheduled open access hours that are staffed; and 24/7 access via the STAR program to students who are already registered with the Klemis Kitchen main location.  

“We hope these new locations across campus will break down barriers to members of the campus community in need of some support,” said Steve Fazenbaker, STAR program director. “Many think they are not experiencing food insecurity, or they are not insecure enough to be able to access our services.” Learn more about Klemis Kitchen services.

The main Klemis Kitchen location was updated in 2019 and serves as a 24/7 kitchen with prepared meals, a pantry, and grab-and-go options. Students can access the main location by filling out this form.