Lexington, Kentucky, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky has introduced a food locker initiative through its Big Blue Pantry to support students facing food insecurity. This initiative allows students to access essential food and hygiene products even when the pantry is closed. The lockers are part of a trial program aimed at improving food security on campus, with planned expansions based on student feedback. The pantry, operating since 2014, ensures students have the necessary resources to succeed academically, while partnerships with local food banks bolster its inventory.
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky has launched a new initiative to aid students in combatting food insecurity by introducing accessible food lockers through its Big Blue Pantry. This effort is aimed at addressing the persistent issue of food security faced by many college students.
The Big Blue Pantry, founded in 2014, was designed to assist students who struggle to secure their next meal. The pantry operates under the department of Student Success and provides essential groceries and personal care items to those in need. The Director of the Big Blue Pantry states that it is critical for students to have access to nourishment so they can concentrate on their studies without the burden of hunger.
The new food locker system allows students to obtain necessary resources even when the pantry is not operational. This initiative gives students in crisis the flexibility and accessibility they require. Students can conveniently reserve a food locker via their UK portal. After the reservation is made, they receive a code that grants them access to the food locker located at the William T. Young Library.
Each locker is equipped with a bag containing hygiene products and shelf-stable food items. Though only two lockers have been utilized thus far, student feedback indicates that the availability of this service is appreciated. The food locker system is in a trial period currently, with plans for potential expansion in the upcoming year.
As part of the support system for students in need, the UK ‘Basic Needs’ staff will conduct follow-ups with individuals who use the lockers. This outreach aims to provide students with additional resources and support beyond their immediate food needs.
The Big Blue Pantry was initially a student-run project before being adopted as a university-sponsored program. An essential partner in the pantry’s operations is God’s Pantry Food Bank, which supplies approximately 90% of the food utilized at the pantry. This partnership ensures that thousands of pounds of food are distributed monthly to support students. The pantry’s inventory includes items such as canned goods, “heat and eat” meals, common kitchen staples, fresh produce, and personal care items, all replenished bi-weekly to maintain a steady supply for students.
Providing nutritious food options is a priority for the Big Blue Pantry in its commitment to help eliminate barriers to student success. The availability of food lockers, in conjunction with the existing pantry, represents a significant step toward ensuring that no student goes hungry on campus. Students are encouraged to reserve lockers as needed and can also contribute to the Big Blue Pantry by making donations through its website.
FAQ
What are the food lockers?
The food lockers are secure storage units that students can access to obtain food and hygiene items, even when the Big Blue Pantry is closed.
How can students access the food lockers?
Students can reserve a locker through their UK portal, which provides them with a code to access the locker at the William T. Young Library.
What items are available in the food lockers?
Each food locker contains a bag of hygiene items along with shelf-stable food products.
Is the food locker service available to all students?
Yes, all students experiencing food insecurity can utilize the food locker service.
How often is the Big Blue Pantry stocked?
The pantry’s inventory is replenished bi-weekly to ensure that adequate resources are available for students.
How can I donate to the Big Blue Pantry?
Donations to the Big Blue Pantry can be made through its official website.
Key Features of the Food Locker Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | William T. Young Library |
| Contents | Shelf-stable food items and hygiene products |
| Access Method | Reservation through UK portal with a provided access code |
| Current Use | Two lockers utilized in the trial phase |
| Support | Follow-up from UK ‘Basic Needs’ staff for additional resources |
| Partnership | God’s Pantry Food Bank supplies 90% of food needs |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Lex 18 News
- Wikipedia: Food Insecurity
- WDRB News
- Google Search: Food Insecurity College Students
- Kentucky.com News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Security
- WTVQ News
- Google News: Food Assistance Programs
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