FOOD

Browse this list of campus and community resources that can help you access free or low-cost food options.

COVID-19 Update for Food Programs:

The Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021 temporarily expands SNAP program eligibility to include students enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education who either:

  1. Are eligible to participate in a federal or state work-study program during the regular school year as determined by the school, OR
  2. Have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $0 in the current academic year as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Beginning Jan. 16, 2021, students who meet one of the two criteria above may receive SNAP benefits if they meet all other financial and non-financial SNAP eligibility criteria. This temporary expansion will remain in effect until 30 days after the COVID-19 public health emergency is lifted.

Apply for State of Kansas SNAP benefits here.

Find more federal information on the temporary SNAP benefits expansion here.

KU Campus Resources

  • Campus Cupboard

    The Campus Cupboard is a food pantry for KU students, faculty, staff and affiliates. Find information and hours at hunger.ku.edu/campus-cupboard.

  • Food For Jayhawks Website

    The Food for Jayhawks website was created by the KU Food Insecurity Committee, established by the Office of Student Affairs, to help members of the KU campus and community identify resources that can improve their conditions of food insecurity.

Community Resources

  • Ballard Center

    Ballard Center is a non-profit organization that provides a high quality, affordable early education program and essential basic life assistance for families and individuals in need, including assistance with food, clothing, and household items.

  • Department for Children & Families

    The Department for Children & Families (DCF) has applications available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - formerly known as food stamps. You can assess your eligibility and apply for benefits on this website.

  • Harvesters Website

    Search for local pantries and food assistance through this website.

  • Jubilee Cafe

    Jubilee Cafe provides breakfast for in-need community members in a restaurant-style environment.

  • Just Food

    Just Food is the food bank in Douglas County, supplying more than 40 partner agencies with frozen meat, fresh produce, bread and food donated form community drives. Just Food also specializes in direct client service through programs that help families and individuals learn to cook as well as how to grow food. They also provide kitchen supplies for those in need.

  • Lawrence Family Support Center

    The Lawrence Family Support Center is available to low-income individuals and families who need food, or assistance with basic utility payments, housing, clothing or medical prescriptions. All services are free and are based on need.

  • Lawrence Food Not Bombs

    Lawrence Food Not Bombs is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to nonviolent social change in Lawrence that recovers food that would otherwise be thrown out and makes fresh hot vegan and vegetarian meals that are served in outside the Lawrence Public Library to anyone without restriction.

  • Salvation Army

    The Salvation Army provides a variety of resources to individuals and families in need, including a food pantry and walk-in lunches served weekly.

  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

    The WIC Program provides food vouchers for pregnant women and families with children under age 5.