Lobo Food Pantry supports students facing food insecurity

Tucked away on the lower level of the UNM Student Union Building is the Lobo Food Pantry, supported by the LoboRESPECT office it provides free, nonperishable food items for all University of New Mexico students.

From its humble beginnings as a monthly mobile food pantry, the program has grown into a vital resource for Lobos across the main campus, serving an average of 1,500 students each month.

"Even at a university like UNM, which is an incredible value for what students pay in tuition, college is still expensive," said Lisa Lindquist, director of the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center. "People forget about the costs beyond tuition - things like books, housing, transportation or just putting food on the table."

According to the 2023-2024 UNM Basic Needs Assessment, nearly 58% of UNM students experience some form of food insecurity, underscoring the importance of campus resources like the Lobo Food Pantry.

"For our first-generation and first-time college students, the pantry can make the difference between skipping meals or staying focused in class," Lindquist added.

The pantry offers more than just food - it also provides essential hygiene items such as laundry and dish detergent, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner and feminine hygiene products.

While the pantry partners with organizations like Roadrunner Food Bank, it's UNM students who provide the bulk of donations throughout the year.

"If a student or group wishes to donate a significant amount, they can contact the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center to coordinate how to donate," Lindquist said. "But any contribution, big or small, is appreciated."

In addition to food and hygiene donations, the pantry also accepts monetary contributions. These funds are used for grocery store runs that help restock shelves with fresh and essential items for students in need.

As the holidays approach, all donations are welcome.

"Donations spike during the holidays," Lindquist said. "People are naturally more inclined to give this time of year - it's part of their normal gift-giving traditions, and we greatly appreciate it, as it will help our students returning to school for the spring semester."

Any current UNM student - undergraduate, graduate or international - is welcome to use the Lobo Food Pantry. Students simply need to present their UNM ID to access the service.

Students are encouraged to bring a bag to carry their items. They may take up to 10 pounds of food and supplies per visit and can visit once per day.

Those interested in volunteering can scan the QR code posted on the pantry door to access the volunteer sign-up sheet or contact the office directly.

The Lobo Food Pantry is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, visit loborespect.unm.edu.