College already comes with a whirlwind of challenges, and when food insecurity is added to that, it can feel like things are impossible. Between rent, utilities, bills, and more, finding healthy foods can slip through the cracks. Nowadays, it can be so difficult to afford the healthy foods necessary to keep our brains functioning in a busy student life. For many students, this is the first time in their lives that they have relied on themselves to eat three meals a day. The folks at Rally Cat’s Cupboard are trying to combat this issue with their student-run food pantry available to anyone in the UVM or the Burlington Community. 

Originally a student club operated through the Student Government Association, Rally Cat’s Cupboard moved under the Food Systems Graduate Program in 2022. You’ll find the pantry on the first floor of the Davis Center heading towards the tunnel, usually busy during its twice-a-week, two-hour operating hours. This spring, the hours have been Mondays from 1pm to 3pm and Thursdays from 12pm to 2pm. 

Going to a food pantry might come with some anxiety, but don’t fret, there is often a line of people waiting to grab what they need, with volunteers to answer any questions. The cupboard upholds a don’t ask policy and expects that anyone coming through is respectful of both pantry goers and volunteers. Some food items you can find at Rally Cat’s Cupboard are canned goods, pasta, rice, breads, juices, cooking oils, fruits, and vegetables, household cleaning products, dish and laundry soap, and more. Don’t worry about rushing down to the cupboard right when it opens either; the volunteers have extra food to put out throughout the two hours to make sure everyone who needs food can get some. 

Dealing with food insecurity doesn’t have to be taboo, and the cupboard is making big strides in helping students and the broader community find their next meal. Rally Cat’s Cupboard greatly appreciates any donated items, and you can leave all non-perishable products in bins outside of the pantry. Visit their webpage for a detailed list of donated items, and contact cupboard@uvm.edu for volunteering and donation inquiries. For more information and changes in hours, follow @rallycatscupboard on Instagram and stay tuned for what they have in store for the rest of the semester!