We believe that no student should have to choose between their education and their next meal. We are committed to supporting food security across our campus community by offering a variety of resources designed to ensure students have consistent access to healthy, nourishing food. Whether you're facing a temporary challenge or looking for ongoing support, this page provides information on available programs and services.
Campus Pantry
The Campus Pantry offers good quality and nutritious emergency food in a safe space to UMD undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff experiencing food insecurity. The Campus Pantry is located in the lower level of the South Campus Dining Hall Building.
Emergency Meal Swipes
Made possible thanks to the Student Government Association, Emergency Meal Swipes are available to assist undergraduate students who are experiencing food insecurity challenges and/or an economic emergency. The swipes provide 10 meals at any of the three dining halls on campus. Students can complete a Thrive Center Assistance Form to request support. This resource is only available to students who are currently experiencing a financial emergency and have exhausted other options. Emergency Meal Swipes are not to be used as a cost-savings strategy, and cannot replace financial aid and other resources. Note: the meal swipe program is not available during breaks since the dining halls are closed.
SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, provides supplemental income for purchasing food for low-income households. College students age 18 through 49 who are enrolled at least half time may be eligible for SNAP if they meet the exemption criteria, which includes taking part in the federal work study program and/or working a part-time job of at least 20 hours per week. Click here for more information and to apply online. For application assistance and questions, call Maryland Hunger Solutions at 866-821-5552 or another SNAP Outreach Community Based Organization.
Additional Resources
Care Solace: Residents of the City of College Park can take advantage of Care Solace, which provides confidential support and connection to resources for those experiencing food/housing insecurity, medical needs, stress, and mental health issues.
College Park Food Bank: Distributed on Saturday mornings at College Park Church of the Nazarene, 9704 Rhode Island Ave, College Park, MD.
@FreeFoodUMD: Follow Hungry UMD Terps on X/Twitter for food giveaways, free meals, and other free food on campus.
Food Pantry listings in Prince George's County (updated weekly)
foodpantries.org: Find food pantries in your area.