The Grocery Basket

The Grocery Basket

By Zahra Marcus, The Whetstone

Wesley College and The Grocery Basket (located just north of the College near Gooding Hall) have been discussing a deal in which students could be allowed to use their points on their I.D’s at the store.

“I think it’s a good idea,” said sophomore Maura Binkley. “It gives students variety on how to spend their points.”

Another student likes the food options better at the Basket.

“I would love the idea, especially being able to buy a BLT every day,” said sophomore Anissa Teach.

The Basket has been one of Wesley College top supporters and donates money every year. The students has always been a big supporter of the store as well.

“As for us we have to wait a year and a half to do business with Wesley before the school contract is up with Aramark,” said Bonnie Meeks, the owner. “If they do decide to open up Wesley points to us, the issue I believe would be the school also having to open Wesley points with other business around the area.”

Wesley College student government also has said they were interested in such an option.

“The Student Government Association has expressed interest in creating an option for students to put cash on their ID cards to be used as money at stores/restaurants off campus” said Wanda Anderson, dean of students. “I agree with the SGA. This could be an excellent option for students.”

Anderson made it clear, however, that meal plans under Aramark have points that only can be spend on campus because Aramark is the College’s meal provider.

“Placing cash on ID cards or accounts by parents or students could be used off campus as cash, and could provide an excellent opportunity for students to make purchases at the Grocery Basket, Bayard Pharmacy, and other local restaurants,” she said.

Before this can happen, she said, the college needs to make sure it has the ability to make the process run smoothly.

“I am excited about the potential of such an option for our students,” she said.