The LibreFoodPantry’s Mission page stood out to me for its dual focus on developing free, open-source software (FOSS) for food pantries and educating students on using tech to address social inequalities like food insecurity. By using coding as a tool for social good, the project transforms classroom learning into real-world impact for example, building inventory systems to help pantries distribute resources more efficiently. I chose this because, as I prepare to contribute until graduation, I want to see how my technical efforts can address community needs. LibreFoodPantry’s mission aligns with my goal to work on projects that prioritize purpose over profit, and it’s motivating to know my contributions at Worcester State could directly support local food pantries.

In Thea’s Pantry’s GitLab repository, I explored the Inclusive Language documentation and was surprised by its integration of the Alex linter—a tool that flags exclusionary terms in documentation, such as gendered language or ableist phrases like “crazy.” This was my first encounter with such a tool. I chose this because it reflects the project’s commitment to inclusivity at every level, ensuring contributors feel welcome. As a student entering the tech field in the future, this practice resonates deeply; it’s a reminder that ethical design isn’t just about functionality but also about creating spaces where diverse voices can thrive.

From the blog CS@Worcester – CodedBear by donna abayon and used with permission of the author. All other rights reserved by the author.