We know that it can be hard to make ends meet when you're paying for college and living on a tight budget. The Cougar Food Pantry provides free, nonperishable items to students in need of food.
The Cougar Food Pantry is only able to serve currently enrolled WSU Vancouver students and Clark College Nursing program students studying on the WSU Vancouver campus. All students who pay their Service and Activities fees may submit a Food Pantry Request form.
Not a student on the WSU Vancouver campus? Check out our guide to free community food resources in Clark County.
How can I participate?
1. Request food if you need it!
The Cougar Food Pantry is a free resource to benefit students at WSU Vancouver. If this resource would benefit you or your family, you are encouraged to use it. We strive to make the process as confidential as possible.
Access the food pantry request form
Are you a Clark College student? Please email van.foodpantry@wsu.edu to receive a link to the food pantry request form.
2. Register for a fresh food event
The Cougar Food Pantry hosts events each semester for students to pick up free fresh vegetables, fruit, protein, dairy and bread. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available. Registration is required.
Fall 2024 events
- 1 – 4 p.m. Sept. 19 | Register between Aug. 30 - Sept. 13
- 1 – 4 p.m. Oct. 23 | Register between Sept. 30 - Oct. 17
- 1 – 4 p.m. Nov. 26 | Register between Nov. 1-19
3. Refer students, friends and classmates
It can be hard to ask for help and sometimes we need a push from a friend or mentor to get the help we need.
4. Donate food
Bring nonperishable food items to the Cougar Center in the Student Services Center. We seek to provide nonperishable healthful foods for students experiencing food shortages. Here is a list of the items we're frequently low on:
- Beans (canned or dry)
- Boxed milk (dairy, soy, almond)
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Canned meals (soups, stew, chili)
- Canned meat
- Canned tuna
- Healthy cereals
- Instant potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese
- Pasta and sauce
- Peanut butter
- Rice
5. Host a food drive
For tips, check out our food drive start-up kit.
Want to give?
Use the following link to visit the WSU Foundation's online giving site. Thank you for your support of WSU Vancouver.
Additional resources
Check our Resource Guide for information on food, clothing and household goods; counseling; employment assistance; legal assistance and tenant landlord dispute; meal programs; medical, dental, vision, hearing and family planning; utilities assistance; rent and mortgage assistance/education, eviction prevention; veterans services; youth services; and day centers.
The Cougar Food Pantry is a member the of the College and University Food Bank Alliance (CUFBA).