UNM expands Lobo Food Pantry support with Pack a Luminaria Drive

The Office of the Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration is spreading light and kindness across campus through its Pack a Luminaria initiative in support of the UNM Lobo Food Pantry.

Through Friday, Dec. 12, the office will collect donation bags filled with essential items for Lobo students. Community members can stop by Scholes Hall, Suite 111, to pick up a donation bag or use the link provided to make a financial contribution to the Lobo Food Pantry.

This year's effort also includes "Holiday Meals in a Bag" to support students during the holiday season. The Lobo Food Pantry will collect Thanksgiving meal bags on Friday, Nov. 21, and host a final collection before winter break on Friday, Dec. 12. Each department in Scholes Hall is encouraged to donate at least one holiday meal bag for both collection periods enabling organizers to provide for as many students as possible.

To honor each contribution, a battery-operated luminaria will be placed in the Scholes Hall hallway with the donor's name or department name. The goal is to fill the building with light throughout the season.

The campaign will conclude with a Cocoa Celebration at 8 a.m. on Dec. 12 in Scholes Hall, Suite 111 - a cozy morning of cocoa, cookies and community to commemorate this year's drive and celebrate Lobo generosity.

Additional Food Pantry Support

Several additional food security resources for students and staff are available across UNM. The Health Sciences Center (HSC) Food Pantry serves students on the UNM North Campus who face food insecurity. North Campus is home to some of the university's most critical programs, including the School of Medicine and the Colleges of Nursing and Pharmacy. The HSC Food Pantry is currently accepting donations to expand its services and continue supporting Lobos in need.

UNM's food security network also extends beyond Albuquerque. The UNM Taos Food Pantry provides students with access to food assistance, help with EBT/SNAP or Medicaid enrollment and well-being workshops.

In Valencia County, the UNM Valencia Food Pantry Fund is used to stock the campus food pantry, micro-pantry and three freezers with nutritious food, quick meals and drinks for students to eat on campus or take home. The fund also supplies hygiene products available for student use on campus or to take home.

To donate to any of these food pantry programs, visit unmfund.org.