The EIU Campus Food Pantry opened on October 1, 2021, to provide support for anyone with a Panther Card. Its mission is simple: to help Panthers put food on the table when they need it most. Students, faculty, and staff may visit the pantry up to two times per month.
Food insecurity—lacking reliable access to affordable, nutritious food—is a growing challenge for many college students. The pantry exists to reduce these barriers and ensure our community has consistent access to healthy food. Guided by the belief that Panthers protect Panthers, the pantry is sustained by the dedication of EIU students, faculty, and staff, and reflects the University’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and a student-centered culture.
To receive support, just bring your EIU Panther Card. No income or financial information is required.
Hours & Location
The EIU Campus Food Pantry is located at 1347 McAfee.
It will be open the following days and times when classes are in session:
- Monday: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
- Tuesday 3-5 p.m.
- Wednesday 1:30-3:30 p.m.
- Thursday 2-4 p.m.
- Friday 2-4 p.m.
Online Shopping Option
If the current pantry hours don't work for you. Check this out! You may fill out the online shopping 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 FAQs
-
How often can I come?
READ MORE
Students are eligible to visit the EIU Campus Food Pantry two times each month. -
What do I need to bring?
READ MORE
Students and staff only need to bring their EIU Panther Card in order to receive support. No income or financial data will be asked for. -
What kind of food items will be available?
READ MORE
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?
READ MORE
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?
READ MORE
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?
READ MORE
There are two other pantries in Charleston and our students are eligible to visit them all as needed.
-
I have a different question. Who can I ask?
READ MORE
Give us a call at 217-581-3967 and ask for Crystal Brown. You can also email us at volunteer@eiu.edu.
How You Can Support the EIU Campus Food Pantry
Volunteer
The pantry is staffed entirely by volunteers, and we need three helpers each time we’re open. If you’d like to get involved, sign up for a shift through the Volunteer Now page on our website.
Donate Funds
The pantry operates solely on the generosity of donors both on and off campus.
- $18 provides one box of food for a student.
- $144 supports a student’s food needs for an entire semester.
All donations are tax-deductible and go directly to helping EIU Panthers. Make a donation online here.
EIU employees may also set up a payroll deduction. To get started, complete the online form or contact Crystal Brown to request a payroll deduction card.
Every gift—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference. Thank you for helping us support Panthers in need!
Donate Food Items
We gladly accept non-perishable food donations year-round. To schedule a drop-off, or if you’d like to organize a food drive, please email us at volunteer@eiu.edu. We’d love to partner with you!
Current Wish List:
- Canned chicken
- Canned tuna
- 1 lb. bags of rice
- Chicken ramen
- Beef ramen
- Can openers
- Apple juice
- Canned corn or green beans
- Chicken noodle soup
- Spaghetti O's
- Beef ravioli
- Grape or strawberry jelly
- Fresh produce
