Campus News
Join campus efforts to help students facing CalFresh delays
The Redwood Free Market is expanding pantry offerings in November to support students facing CalFresh delays and encourage campus partners to contribute.
Dear Campus Community,
As you may know, the federal government shutdown is causing delays in CalFresh benefits for many students. These delays are creating significant strain for students who rely on CalFresh to meet their basic food needs.
In response, the Redwood Free Market (RFM) is expanding its pantry offerings throughout November to help ensure every student has access to nutritious food during this challenging time. We’re inviting campus partners to join us in this effort by contributing food items that are most in demand. Your support—right now—will make a direct and meaningful impact for students experiencing food insecurity.
Most Needed Food Items:
- Nut butters (peanut, almond, sunflower, etc.)
- Jams, jellies, and fruit preserves
- Breakfast items (cereal, granola, bars, oatmeal)
- Rice (a high-demand item that runs out quickly from Second Harvest Food Bank supplies)
- Plant-based milks or shelf-stable dairy milk
- Canned soups and other ready-to-heat meals
- Chicken or vegetable stocks and broths
We ask that all donated items be non-perishable, unopened, and within their best-by date.
Where to Donate:
Donations can be dropped off directly at the Redwood Free Market, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the Rachel Carson Café, across from the Rachel Carson Dining Hall.
Large donations
If you’re coordinating a large donation or need to arrange a different drop-off time, please contact redwood@ucsc.edu to schedule.
Make a gift to support the Redwood Free Market
In addition to food donations, you can also support the Redwood Free Market with a monetary gift through the UC Santa Cruz Giving site.
Students will be receiving a message with information about resources available to them during this time. We also recognize that some staff may be affected. Food pantries throughout the county and across California are increasing their supplies, supported by additional funding from Governor Newsom.
Your support helps students access the nourishment and care they need while CalFresh benefits are delayed. Together, our community can demonstrate what it means to show up for one another—thank you for being part of that effort.
With great appreciation for all that you are already doing to support students and the campus.
– Garrett
Garrett Naiman
Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Development and Engagement and Dean of Students