Feeling the Love

It’s the middle of February and love is in the air! Our 3rd Anniversary + Grand Opening of Bear Necessities on February 1st was a huge hit on campus, as supporters gathered to learn about basic needs insecurity at UM. We would like to thank UM’s President Bodnar and Mayor John Engen for showing up to speak about the importance of our work- it’s nice to have the support of such influential figures in our community!

Director Kat Cowley cutting the ribbon to mark the Grand Opening of ASUM’s new basic needs agency, Bear Necessities.

Thank you also to everyone who showed up in support of our mission, whether by donating or simply helping to spread the word. Together, we raised over $6.2K to keep our shelves stocked with food and personal care products for the remainder of the academic year! We couldn’t be more grateful for our generous community.

Speaking of generosity, mark your calendars because UM’s annual day of giving (aka The Big Give) is just around the corner! Last year, UM raised over $280K for various programs across campus. This year, UM is hoping to engage at least 1,000 donors during this 24-hour period. If you missed our 3rd anniversary celebration, the Big Give is another great opportunity to show your love for the UM Food Pantry.

As we continue to raise awareness and grow in our capacity to serve students, we’re experiencing sharp increases in demand for food and other resources. Since the beginning of 2022, the Pantry has distributed 2,833 pounds of food to 110 households, including 37 new customers- that’s a 20% increase in distribution from the same timeframe last year, in addition to a 42% increase in clientele! Can you help us meet the ever-growing need in our community?

We are currently in need of the following items at the Pantry:

• Spices & spice blends
• Simmer sauces, condiments and marinades
• Canned proteins, such as beans and chicken
• Baking mixes & ingredients such as flour and sugar
• Cereal and snacks
• Infant care products such as formula, baby food, diapers and wipes
• Personal care products such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrushes & toothpaste, pads & tampons
• Plastic, paper, and reusable shopping bags

Please reach out to umpantry@mso.umt.edu if you would like to sponsor a donation drive for the Pantry! Individual donations are also always appreciated.

Ask our Pantry Coordinator, Collin, about the impact of donations to the UM Food Pantry!

Thanks for reading, folks! Always be on the lookout for more updates from the UM Food Pantry. In the meantime, stay safe & healthy out there. #GoGriz!