(Updated November, 2024)
What do I do when I visit the Big Blue Pantry?
It's easy! When you come visit the Big Blue Pantry, you'll be invited to take a reusable bag and fill it with whatever you need from our shelves. Once you have finished, you will weigh your bag (there is no weight limit) and fill out a short digital survey. You will need your UK ID number for the survey.
What items can be found in the pantry?
We have canned foods, dry goods (rice, pasta, noodles, cereal), "heat and eat" meals, common kitchen staples like milk, bread, butter, cheese, etc., and personal care items such as shampoo, soap/body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, menstrual hygiene items, and shaving products. We also try to keep small quantities of meat and fresh produce, but those items tend to go quickly! As of 2024, we also receive donations from Starbucks that include refrigerated breads, pastries, and sandwiches.
How often is the pantry restocked?
The pantry is typically restocked at least once a week.
Is there a limit of how many times a person can visit the pantry?
Yes. Visits are limited to three (3) times per month.
Where is the pantry located?
The pantry is located on the lower level of Frazee Hall, Room 016.
Do you accept donations?
Yes! We accept both shelf-stable food donations as well as monetary donations. We ask that the items donated be new and unopened. We cannot accept partially used or previously opened items (except for boxes of individually wrapped items, such as granola bars or microwave popcorn) and we cannot accept items that are past their expiration date. Additionally, we do not accept any over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, Aspirin, or cold medicines.
Monetary donations can be made to the Big Blue Pantry Gift Fund. We are not able to accept any cash or checks in the pantry.
I want to donate to the pantry - what items are needed most?
We are always in need of the following items:
Canned Tuna and other canned meats (Chicken, Vienna Sausages, Spam, etc.)
Jellies, Jams, and Peanut Butter (or similar items such as Almond Butter or Nutella)
Granola or Cereal Bars
Rice (Long grain or Basmati)
Cooking Oil
Mac and Cheese
Chef Boyardee Ravioli
Ramen (all types)
Dry Pasta
Pasta Sauces
Condiments (Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo, Soy Sauce, Hot Sauce)
Spices (Salt and Pepper, Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Paprika, etc.)
Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Bars of Soap
Tampons and Pads (all sizes)
Disposable Razors and Shaving Cream
Manual Can-Openers