UCCS and CU Denver are once again going head-to-head to see which campus can raise the most funds for its food pantry. The competition runs from Monday, Nov. 3 – Tuesday, Dec. 2. While only one university will take the top spot, the real win is what we can accomplish together.
Each month, hundreds of UCCS students rely on the free food and hygiene items provided by Clyde’s Cupboard, the campus food pantry. In fact, nearly half of UCCS students report facing food insecurity while attending the university, meaning they have missed meals because of lack of funds or have faced hard choices between paying bills or buying groceries.
Clyde’s Cupboard has seen a surge in student need with visits increasing by approximately 1,000 per year. And the need for Clyde’s Cupboard may continue to increase as students navigate external financial and food assistance landscapes. Students can visit the 100% donation-based pantry once a week for non-perishable food items and hygiene items. The resource also provides free fresh produce and dairy products every other Friday during the spring and fall semesters. An additional program called Mountain Lion Meals offers students three free meals per week at several campus dining facilities.
“My job is special to me because I come from a single-parent home, and it was very difficult as a first-generation student to feed myself and work full time throughout college,” said Amber Gilson, Basic Needs Coordinator with Clyde’s Cupboard. “The pantry is helping students who experience similar challenges. We were so excited by how the Food Fight did last year and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish this year.”
Last year’s Food Fight was a resounding success. In total, the inaugural event raised $34,684 to combat food insecurity on both campuses. With 370 donors rallying behind the cause, the friendly competition not only brought in vital funds but also spotlighted the growing need for student support. CU Denver won the 2024 Food Fight, raising just $500 more than UCCS.
Ent Credit Union has generously agreed to serve as a match partner for the 2025 CU Food Fight campaign. Ent’s contributions will magnify the reach and effectiveness of donations. Other special giving challenges will be held throughout the month with more information released as the campaign gets underway.
Because the cupboard is open to all, students find a nonjudgmental space and friendly faces—often when they need them most.
Ways to Give
Monetary donations can be made here.
UCCS faculty and staff can increase or update payroll contributions to support Clyde’s Cupboard here. All changes made during the CU Food Fight will count toward the battle with CU Denver.
A Giving Tuesday open house is scheduled for 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2 outside of Big Cat Coffee in the University Center. Everyone is invited!
The Battle of the Departments Annual Food Drive, an annual campus event promoted by the UCCS Dean of Students Office, is another way to participate in the fight against food insecurity in our community. Non-perishable food items will be accepted through Friday, Nov. 14. The winning department will get a catered breakfast courtesy of Dining & Hospitality Services, the traveling Battle of the Department trophy and, of course, a full year of bragging rights.