For almost a decade, R’Pantry has supported UC Riverside students by providing essential food and hygiene products, growing its program over the years to expand access to those in need.

This Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3, UCR is encouraging alumni and the larger campus community to support the program by gifting a meal and encouraging others to donate as part of the Highlanders Ending Hunger campaign. A donation of at least $10, which provides five to six meals and helps keep the R’Pantry shelves stocked, is suggested.

More than half of Highlander undergraduates face food insecurity and don’t always know where their next meal is coming from, according to R’Pantry. R’Pantry’s numbers continue to grow each year with almost 13,000 student visits in 2023, a 68% increase from the previous year.

While the Office of Annual Giving is focusing on R’Pantry for this year’s Giving Tuesday, donors interested in supporting other campus programs are welcome to do so.

Established in 2015, R’Pantry supplies non-perishable food, personal hygiene, household care, and childcare products to undergraduate and graduate students. Students can stock up once a week at a grocery-style space at Highlander Union Building filled with canned and dry goods, fresh produce, seasonal items, and a refill station.

Over 300 students access emergency food and basic supplies through R’Pantry each week.

“I’ve come to understand the heartfelt “thank you” we get as a student walks out the door is so much more than the food they’re carrying home,” said Remi Rodriguez, R’Pantry coordinator.

Two years ago, R’Pantry relocated into its current office at HUB 346, offering more space and an accessible location for students. In addition to the main office, it has expanded to provide satellite hours at the Student Health and Counseling Center and pop-up pantries at the bell tower and Career Center.

Learn more about R’Pantry and Giving Tuesday.