About Us
The Central Pantry is a food pantry for UCO students, faculty and staff. The UCO Central Pantry was established Nov. 17, 2012, after Community Engagement had conversations with the food pantries throughout the OKC community and was informed about the high number of UCO students utilizing their services. In response to this need, Community Engagement partnered with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to open the first collegiate food pantry in the state. Central Pantry is a choice-model pantry. You choose the food you want to take home, just like shopping at the grocery store. Central Pantry is a partner agency of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and is staffed completely by volunteers. We are able to help those in need through the donations we receive from the community we are assisting. Operating Hours Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Location The Central Pantry is located in Room 151 on the first floor of the Nigh University Center. If there is not a volunteer available in the Pantry, visit Community Engagement in Room 141 of the Nigh University Center for assistance. For questions regarding the Central Pantry, contact the Central Pantry or call 405-974-3456. How to Shop the Central Pantry: All that is needed to utilize the Central Pantry is proof that you are currently enrolled or employed at UCO and a current Client Application on file with Community Engagement. Once a form is on file and approved, clients can use the Central Pantry once per week. Who Qualifies to Use the Pantry? The Central Pantry is intended to be used by UCO students, faculty, and staff members who meet the gross income limits set forth by the Oklahoma Emergency Assistance Program (TEFAP) only. These limits are found by calculating 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Donate to the Central Pantry: Donations to the Central Pantry are always welcome. All non-perishable food items are accepted. The Central Pantry also holds item-focused food drives throughout the year for items that the Pantry is typically low on stock. Volunteer at the Central Pantry: The Central Pantry is open 35 hours each week and is staffed by volunteers. We continually are looking for new UCO students, faculty and staff that wish to volunteer their time at the Central Pantry.
