The Cupboard, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s student food pantry, has seen an increased need over the past few months.
“Our shelves seem to be bare more quickly than usual, and there is a wider variety of students are coming in,” according to Audrey Molter, The Cupboard operations coordinator within Campus Activities and Student Engagement (CASE).
Donations have been coming in due to the government shutdown and the upcoming holiday season, she said, yet demand is keeping supplies low.
The most sought-after items are snack products, such as granola bars, beef jerky, macaroni and cheese microwave meals, as well as perishable items, such as eggs, fruit, vegetables, milk and meat, which can be stored in The Cupboard’s refrigerator and freezer, said Molter.
Donations can be brought directly to The Cupboard during walk-in hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except for state-recognized holidays. Outside of open hours, employees at the CASE front desk can also receive donations to take them to The Cupboard.
Donations can also be shipped directly from stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club, by sending items to 1015 Reserve St., Room 50, Stevens Point, WI 54481. Monetary donations in cash, checks or grocery store gift cards can be made online through the UWSP Foundation at uwsp.edu/givenow or mailed to UWSP Foundation, 2100 Main S., Suite 134, Stevens Point WI 54481, with “The Cupboard Fund #4890” in the check memo line.
Sharing information about The Cupboard is also important, said Molter, as many students are not aware the food pantry exists. “With food costs increasing, there will continue to be a need. I hope more students know what a great resource The Cupboard is for them,” said Molter.
Students needing short or long-term food assistance are welcome at The Cupboard during open hours or by filling out an online request form with your preferences. A volunteer will pack your groceries for pick up at the CASE front desk. Learn more at www.uwsp.edu/the-cupboard/.