DENVER (KDVR) — Students at Metropolitan State University of Denver are asking for donations to the school’s food pantry to help ensure their classmates don’t go hungry amid the federal government shutdown.
A 2024 study by research firm Trellis Strategies found that about half of Michigan State University’s approximately 18,000 students are food insecure. Many of these students are without food assistance this month, as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits remain in limbo during the government shutdown.
Rowdy’s Corner, the on-campus food pantry, has seen a significant increase in demand this semester. The pantry now serves about 1,700 students each month, up from about 1,000 at this time last year.
“You want to go to school and make these changes, but you have to eat and put your basic human needs first,” said Millie Hagos, a student at Michigan State University in Denver who works at Rudy’s Corner.
Hagos relies on SNAP benefits herself, along with about 14% of MSU Denver students.
“The money on my card hasn’t run out yet,” Hagos said. “So, it still didn’t really shock me.”
University leaders said they are looking to purchase additional food for the pantry, so students can focus on classes instead of worrying about where their next meal will come from.
“Being able to complete these options here on campus is really important for us to make sure that students can stay healthy and also stay engaged in their school,” said Taylor Tackett, associate vice president for student engagement and well-being and dean of students. “This is happening right in the middle of the semester, and being able to keep moving forward is our primary goal.”
Hagos said the food pantry is not a substitute for SNAP benefits. It doesn’t have the same options as a grocery store, she said, and won’t be able to provide three meals a day to every student in need. However, until her EBT card is refilled, this is a huge help.
“It obviously doesn’t fit all the same needs that SNAP did, but it helps,” she said. “If you’re on campus, we have some ready-to-eat meal items — usually like ramen. I think things like that are really important to be able to have lunch or a snack during the school day.”
According to the university, items most in need at Rowdy’s Corner include:
- Snack items
- drinks
- Cup ramen noodles
- Ready-to-eat or simple-fix meals
- Travel size personal care products
- Women’s care products
Rowdy’s Corner accepts both food and… Monetary donations. You can also have food delivered to Collection boxes throughout the Michigan State University Denver campus.