Each month, hundreds of UCCS students rely on the free food and hygiene items provided by Clyde’s Cupboard, the campus’ food pantry. In fact, nearly half of UCCS students report facing food insecurity while attending the university, meaning they have missed meals because of lack of funds or have faced hard choices between paying bills or buying groceries.
To keep the shelves stocked, the first-ever CU Food Fight campaign starts this month. Culminating on Giving Tuesday, a National Day of Giving, UCCS is going head-to-head with CU Denver to see which campus can raise the most funds for its food pantry. For those who wish to contribute to other important projects and opportunities at UCCS, a new campus-wide giving day will be held in the spring. More information on the new day of giving will be available soon.
“Clyde’s Cupboard and the programming it offers not only works to reduce food insecurity across our campus, but also works to reduce the stigma around asking for help when in need,” said Amber Gilson, Basic Needs Coordinator with Clyde’s Cupboard. “Our community works so hard to meet our students where they are to support them, and Clyde’s Cupboard does just that. No matter the level of need, Clyde’s Cupboard provides food resources to every student at UCCS.”
In fall of 2023, UCCS students visited the cupboard 2,613 times, with no requirement to demonstrate need. Whether they need staples to get them through the week or a hot meal between classes, the food pantry is a vital resource.
Students can visit the 100 percent donation-based pantry once a week for nonperishable food items and hygiene items. Clyde’s Cupboard provides free fresh produce and dairy products every other Friday during the spring and fall semesters. There’s also an option that allows for up to three free meals per week at several campus dining facilities.
Victoria Watson, assistant director for health promotions at CU Denver said Milo’s Market, the food pantry on her campus, is just as vital.
“My mission is to help students be the best versions of themselves. And that doesn’t happen with an empty stomach,” Watson said. “Every day, I see how access to fresh, nutritious food can turn a student’s week around. What’s more, donor generosity helps us connect students with the resources and tools they need to succeed in their college careers and beyond.”
Every gift made during the CU Food Fight will keep students on both campuses fed and supported.
Special giving challenges will be held throughout the month with more information released as the campaign gets underway.
Monetary donations can be made here.
UCCS faculty and staff can increase or update payroll contributions to support Clyde’s Cupboard here. All changes made during the CU Food Fight will count toward the battle with CU Denver.
An open house is scheduled from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 at Clyde’s Cupboard in the Student Life lounge with snacks, coffee, and cocoa. Everyone is invited.
Additionally, the UCCS Dean of Students Office is in the middle of the Battle of the Departments Annual Food Drive as another way to fight food insecurity in our community. Non-perishable food items will be accepted through Nov. 22. The winning department will get a catered breakfast courtesy of Dining & Hospitality Services, the traveling Battle of the Department trophy and, of course, a full year of bragging rights.