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EIU Civic Engagement and Volunteerism

EIU CAMPUS FOOD PANTRY

 

students getting food in food pantry

At the EIU Food Pantry, we’re here to support any member of the Panther community. Our services are open to all who need them—no questions asked.  

 

Location: 1347 McAfee Gym  
Hours (When Classes Are in Session):  

  • Monday: 1:30–3:30 PM  
  • Tuesday: 3:00–5:00 PM  
  • Wednesday: 1:30–3:30 PM and 5:00–7:00 PM  
  • Thursday: 2:00–4:00 PM  
  • Friday: 2:00–4:00 PM
 *Alternative Pickup time*
If the current pantry hours don't work for you. You may fill out the Alternative Pickup Time form.
Once submitted, a staff member in OLE will reach out to setup a time for you to pick up your food. We do ask that you give us 1-2 business days to follow up with you.

  

food pantry logo

Our Mission   

Established on October 1, 2021, the EIU Food Pantry was created in response to the growing challenge of food insecurity on college campuses. Webelieve no Panther should go hungry. Since opening our doors, we’ve supported over 3000 students, faculty, and staff—and we’re just getting started.  

 

  Getting food from the pantry is easy and stress-free—just bring your Panther Card, and we’ll take care of the rest!   

  • Step 1: 

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    Check in with a volunteer, who will swipe your Panther Card. 

  • Step 2: 

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    You’ll receive a form listing our staple food items, along with a number—hang on to this number, as it will be called when your order is ready. Simply check off the items you'd like.  

  • Step 3: 

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    Return the form to a volunteer. While we pack your order into grocery bags, feel free to browse our toiletry section or ask about specialty items like eggs, milk, or meat. (These are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.) You're also welcome to bring your own bags! 

  • Step 4: 

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    When your number is called, your order is ready. Pick it up and you're all set—enjoy your food! 

 


Inventory wish list: 

Rice
Canned Chicken
Spaghetti O's
Canned Corn
Chicken Noodle Soup
Can Openers


We can also always use staple items such as:

  • Individual Fruit Cups
    • Apple Sauce, Peaches, Pears
  • Rice
  • Spaghetti noodles
  • Beef ravioli
  • Fresh produce.
 

 

  • How often can I come?

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    Students are eligible to visit the EIU Campus Food Pantry two times each month.

  • What do I need to bring?

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    The kind of food that will be shared will include ravioli, peanut butter and jelly, canned veggies and fruits, soup, cereal, pasta or rice, macaroni and cheese, and fresh foods such as bread, milk, eggs, and fresh produce.

  • How much food will I receive?

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    Each time a Panther visits the pantry they will be sent home with enough food for roughly 9 meals for one person.

  • Can I get food for me and my roommates?

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    Each Panther will be served on an individual basis. Your roommates are welcome to come to the EIU Campus Food Pantry to receive their own food.

  • What other pantries are in our area?

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    There are two other pantries in Charleston and our students are eligible to visit them all as needed.
    Charleston Food Pantry 
    Standing Stone - Carpenters Table Food Pantry 

  • I have a different question- who can I ask?

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    Give us a call at (217) 581-3967 and ask for Crystal Brown. You can also email us at: volunteer@eiu.edu

 

Get Involved   

Our motto, Panthers Protect Panthers, reflects our belief that food insecurity is a community issue—and one we can solve together.  

Want to make a difference?  

  •  Donate:

    Help us stock our shelves and serve more Panthers. Your donation is tax-deductible. You can also donate non perishable food items throughout the year. To schedule a time to donate items please email us at: volunteer@eiu.edu

  •  Volunteer: Join our team and give your time to a meaningful cause.  

 

If you are interested in organizing a drive please email us at: volunteer@eiu.edu and we are thrilled to partner together.

 

 

Related Pages

Food Assistance FlyerGive to the Food Pantry

Contact Information

Leadership & Engagement

Eastern Illinois University
MLK Jr. Union 3rd Floor
Charleston, IL 61920
217-581-3967
volunteer@eiu.edu


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