Food insecurity can be a significant challenge for students. Recognizing this, the University of Alabama and the state of Alabama offer several programs to ensure students have access to nutritious food during times of need. This guide outlines the key food assistance resources available to students, both on campus and statewide.
University of Alabama Food Assistance Programs
The University of Alabama Student Care and Well-Being division provides direct support to students experiencing food insecurity through two primary programs: the “Got Meals” Meal Donation Program and the Student Food Pantry.
“Got Meals” Meal Donation Program
The “Got Meals” program is designed to offer immediate, short-term food assistance to students. Through this program, students can apply for a temporary meal allotment to help them through challenging times. Students are generally limited to two meal allotments per semester to ensure resources are available to as many students as possible. For students with ongoing needs beyond the initial allotment, the university encourages them to schedule an appointment with a case manager to discuss further support and resources. To request meals through the “Got Meals” program, students can complete a Food Assistance Request form.
Student Food Pantry
The Student Food Pantry offers another crucial resource for students facing food insecurity. Located on campus, the pantry provides a variety of food items to students in need. To ensure the pantry can serve a wide range of students, requests are limited to once per week. Students needing to access the food pantry can also complete the online Food Assistance Request form to arrange a visit.
For any questions about these university-based programs or to explore additional resources available both on campus and within the Tuscaloosa community, students are encouraged to contact a case manager at 205-348-2461 or via email at [email protected].
Alabama State Food Assistance: SNAP Benefits
Beyond university-specific programs, students in Alabama may also be eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a statewide initiative managed by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. SNAP provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families to help them afford groceries. Students interested in learning more about SNAP eligibility requirements and the application process in Alabama can visit the Food Assistance Division of the Alabama Department of Human Resources website for detailed information.
Alabama Food Assistance Division
By utilizing these combined resources – the University of Alabama’s direct support programs and the state-wide SNAP benefits – students facing food insecurity in Alabama have multiple avenues for accessing the food assistance they need to thrive academically and personally.
