Food insecurity among college students is a pressing issue that affects one-third of students at colleges and universities, impacting graduation rates and student success. The University of Houston has taken up the challenge to address this issue through its Cougar Cupboard, a campus food pantry supported by the Houston Food Bank.
Located in University Lofts, the Cupboard provides students with non-perishable groceries, fresh produce, cleaning supplies, and toiletries. Despite limited operating hours following Hurricane Beryl, the Cupboard will resume its regular schedule by the first week of September.
Support from the University community through donation drives has been instrumental in meeting the Cupboard’s needs. Kevin Nguyen, associate director of the Center for Student Advocacy and Community, acknowledges the generosity and emphasizes the importance of community support.
The Cupboard’s biggest needs include canned food, dry goods, cooking oils, non-perishable meals, and high-protein items like nuts and peanut butter. Nguyen also suggests providing basic kitchen items to assist students in preparing meals.
Volunteer assistance is crucial in ensuring the pantry runs smoothly. Houston Food Bank will soon make regular deliveries, requiring help with sorting and stocking items. Both new and returning students can benefit from the Cupboard’s services once it resumes its regular schedule.
Students can sign up for the Cupboard and become part of the Houston Food Bank’s Food for Change Market Program, receiving food from other participating pantries in the city. The Cupboard has seen a significant increase in student registrations and visits since its relocation to University Lofts.
Managed by the Center for Student Advocacy and Community, the Cupboard aligns with its mission of helping students overcome obstacles to academic and personal success. Nguyen highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity as part of a larger commitment to supporting students.
The Cupboard serves as a crucial resource for students, offering a solution to alleviate food-related anxieties and promote student success. Nguyen emphasizes the direct link between food insecurity and student productivity, underscoring the Cupboard’s role in supporting students both academically and personally.
As part of its commitment to student welfare, the Cupboard remains a vital resource for students, ensuring they have access to essential food supplies to stay focused on their studies and personal well-being.