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Bulldog Food Pantry

Bulldog Food Pantry

Bulldog in a shopping cart


Food insecurity has proven to be a quiet and lesser-known issue, yet an increasingly common trend on college campuses across the country. With the opening of the Bulldog Food and Resource Center, the SWOSU community wants to make the message come across loud and clear to those in need: help is here.

Thanks to their efforts and the collaboration of multiple departments across campus, SWOSU joins hundreds of college campuses working to provide meal solutions for students on campus in need.

“We are here to help with any food insecurities students may face. We hope to always offer access to all students to enough food for an active, healthy life,“ Susan Ellis the Bulldog Food and Resource Center Director said. “Students should not have to decide between buying a book or buying food for the weekend. That is the purpose of this pantry.”

The Bulldog Food and Resource Center is open Monday 8:00-12:00 pm, Wednesday 1:00-4:00 pm, and Friday 8:00-12:00 pm.

The Bulldog Food Pantry is open to ALL SWOSU students! This service has no requirements other than bringing your Student ID and leaving with food. Our goal is for all students to have enough food throughout the semester.

“I want every person on this campus to hear that we are here for you,” Robert Nikkel, Coordinator said. “Your community has your back. We are here to support you.”

Bulldog standing by sign in wellness center that says: STRUGGLING WITH GROCERIES OR ESSENTIALS? 1in3 COLLEGE STUDENTS REPORT EXPERIENCING FOOD INSECURITY. The Bulldog Food and Resource Center is. committed to helping SWOSU students by offering food, personal hygiene items, and school supplies. Our services aim to help students meet their basic needs and focus on their studies. Visit us for the support and resources you need to succeed. OPEN TO ALL SWOSU STUDENTS LOCATED IN THE WELLNESS CENTER. HOURS OF OPERATION MONDAY 8:00 - 12:00 P.M. WEDNESDAY 1:00-4:00 PM. FRIDAY 8:00-12:00 P.M. CLOSED WHEN THE CAMPUS IS CLOSED. BRING YOUR STUDENT ID
Food Insecurity. What it means & who it affects.
Bulldog holding food standing with two people.
Bulldog standing in pantry holding food

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I donate?

Drop your items off at the Wellness Center.

Food: Undamaged canned, boxed, dried foods, formula, baby food.

Non-food: Tolietry items, feminine hygiene products, cleaning supplies, diapers.

How often can I visit the Pantry?

A SWOSU student can visit the pantry once per week.

Where is Food Pantry located?

We are located in the Wellness Center.

Who can receive assistance from the Food Pantry?

Any current student with a current student ID.

How much food can a person receive from the Food Pantry?

Recommended guidelines are in the Bulldog Food Pantry and are based on family size.

Can I donate non-food items?

We are currently accepting toiletry items, feminine hygiene products, cleaning supplies and diapers.

Donations

What we need the most

  • Canned chicken, tuna and ham or hearty, ready-to-go meals like beef stew and chili with meat.
  • Canned vegetables: Potatoes, collard greens, beans, carrots, spinach or peas (especially varieties with no salt added)
  • Canned fruit and individual fruit cups
  • Canned tomatoes & pasta sauce
  • Shelf stable milk and alternatives (rice, soy, etc.)
  • Snack items like juice boxes, applesauce containers, granola bars
  • Single serve macaroni & cheese
  • Low-sugar cereal like plain Cheerios
  • Peanut or other nut butter, especially crunchy
  • Instant oatmeal, instant grits
  • Whole grain pasta, brown rice and quinoa
  • Biscuit or baking mixes (that only require water)

What we cannot use

  • Perishable foods
  • Expired food
  • Food without a label
  • Homemade food
  • Food or packaging that’s falling apart or damaged