For many students, college life comes with more than just academic pressure. It also includes the challenge of meeting basic needs. At Delta College, the student food pantry has become a vital resource, offering more than groceries by supporting student success, stability, and well-being.
The food pantry, which opened in March 2019, was created to address food insecurity among students. What started as a small closet in the student life office has grown into a full-service pantry that now supports hundreds of students each week. Its mission is to ensure that students do not have to choose between their education and their next meal.
“The main mission of the food pantry is to support students experiencing food insecurity by providing access to free groceries so they can focus on their education,” said Valerie Valera, the pantry manager.
Since its opening, the pantry has continued to expand both its space and services. Staff and volunteers have worked to improve this resource, increasing outreach, and building partnerships to keep shelves stocked. What once served a small number of students now operates as a consistent and reliable support for a large portion of the campus community.
Each week, the pantry serves about 500 to 600 students, reflecting the growing need for food assistance on campus. According to staff, usage has steadily increased as more students learn about the resource. The pantry provides a variety of items, including shelf-stable foods, fresh produce when available, and other basic groceries.
As inflation and the cost of living continue to rise, students are finding it difficult to afford essentials. For some, the pantry helps stretch limited budgets, while for others, it provides a primary source of food during the week.
“One of our biggest challenges is keeping up with the demand,” Valera explained. “As more students learn about the food pantry, the need continues to grow, and we are constantly in need of donations and support.”
Beyond numbers, the pantry plays a significant role in students’ daily lives. For many, it reduces financial stress and allows them to focus on their studies instead of worrying about food. Students who use the pantry say it has directly impacted their academic performance and overall stability.
Food Pantry Manager Valerie Valera and student worker Kohinoor Kaur in the pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos on April 30, 2026. 
Food Pantry “We’re open” sign in English and Spanish. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food Pantry entrance. Photo by Ruan. 
Food Pantry “Estamos Abiertos” sign, which is “We’re Open” in Spanish. Photo by Ruan Passos on April 13, 2026. 
Food Pantry hours of operation and a little more information about the pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food Pantry half sheet paper. Students need to fill that out in order to shop at the Food Pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food Pantry baskets. Those are the baskets that the students use to shop at the pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Delta College mascot Fierce shopping at the Food Pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos on April 17, 2026. 
ood items (one point items) that the pantry has to offer. Students can get four of the one-point items. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food items (mixed point refrigerated items) offered by the pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food Pantry computers. Students can use those computers to sign up for the pantry. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food items (3 points items) offered by the pantry. Students can get two of the three-point items. Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food items (two and one point items). Photo by Ruan Passos. 
Food items (two points items) that the pantry has to offer. Students can get three of the two-point items. Photo 
Food Pantry getting restocked. Photo by Ruan Passos on March 4, 2026.
Students who rely on the pantry emphasize that its impact goes far beyond convenience, and it can be life changing.
“The pantry has helped me a lot because I don’t have to worry every day about if I’m going to eat,” said Antonella Ortiz, a student majoring in accounting and business administration. “It has reduced my stress with finances and helped me focus on school and get better grades.”
Staff members also highlight that the pantry serves a diverse group of students, including single parents, international students, and those facing financial hardship. The service is available to all enrolled students, regardless of income, helping bridge gaps that other assistance programs may not cover.
Because of this inclusivity, the pantry has become a central support resource within the campus community.
“We serve all students. It does not matter your income or your situation,” said Alyssa Suarez, a pantry worker. “Having the food pantry really makes a difference because not everyone qualifies for other programs.”
As the cost of living continues to rise, the need for resources like the campus food pantry is expected to grow. By addressing food insecurity, the pantry allows students to stay focused on their education and build a better future. For many students, it is more than just a place to pick up groceries. It is a source of relief, stability, and hope.
