Lexington, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky’s Big Blue Pantry has launched expanded services with the introduction of nine new food lockers to help students facing food insecurity. These lockers, located in the William T. Young Library, provide after-hours access to emergency food supplies. As food insecurity affects nearly 17% of Kentuckians, the initiative aims to assist students in crisis. While the pantry’s standard operating hours are on weekdays, these new lockers ensure that students can obtain vital food items any time they need assistance.
Lexington – The University of Kentucky’s Big Blue Pantry is launching expanded services aimed at mitigating food insecurity among its student population. This initiative is critical as nearly 17% of Kentuckians face challenges with food access, a concern that is reflected within the university’s student body. With the aim to assist students in crisis, the pantry has introduced nine new food lockers located in the basement of the William T. Young Library, offering access to emergency food supplies after standard pantry hours.
The Big Blue Pantry, situated in Frazee Hall’s Room 016, primarily operates during weekdays but remains closed on weekends and holidays. The addition of food lockers provides a solution for students who may require food assistance outside of these operational hours. Students can conveniently apply online to receive a unique access code, which will enable them to reach one of the lockers.
Each food locker contains a bag filled with various shelf-stable food items, including ramen noodles, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal, granola bars, and canned goods. These bags are designed to last students two to three days, ensuring they have sufficient supplies during emergencies. In the last academic year, the Big Blue Pantry served about 900 individuals, with total visits reaching between 2,500 to 3,000. However, since the lockers were installed on September 5, only two students have accessed the new service.
Currently, the initiative is in a trial phase, and there may be potential for expansion based on its success and student needs. The program’s coordinator has highlighted the impact of food insecurity on both academic success and mental well-being among students. Addressing these concerns is vital, as the university aims to create an environment where students can thrive without the burden of hunger.
The Big Blue Pantry originated as a student-led initiative in 2014 and has since developed into a university-sponsored program, reflecting the institution’s commitment to supporting its students. The pantry continuously accepts donations of shelf-stable food items and monetary contributions to bolster its mission of alleviating food insecurity.
As the university works towards destigmatizing the need for food assistance, the message remains clear: it is perfectly acceptable for students to seek help when it is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Big Blue Pantry is open during weekdays but is closed on weekends and holidays.
Where are the new food lockers located?
The food lockers are located in the basement of the William T. Young Library.
How can students access the food lockers?
Students must apply online for a unique access code that will allow them to open one of the food lockers.
What kind of food items are available in the lockers?
The lockers are stocked with bags containing shelf-stable food items like ramen noodles, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal, granola bars, and canned goods, designed to last for two to three days.
Has there been significant usage of the new food lockers?
As of now, only two students have utilized the lockers since they were installed.
How long has the Big Blue Pantry been in operation?
The Big Blue Pantry began as a student initiative in 2014, and it is now a university-sponsored program.
How can individuals support the Big Blue Pantry?
Donations of shelf-stable food and monetary contributions are welcomed to help enhance the support available for students in need.
Key Features of Big Blue Pantry Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Food Lockers | Nine lockers located in the basement of the William T. Young Library providing after-hours access to food. |
| Application Process | Students must apply online to receive a unique access code for locker usage. |
| Contents of Food Bags | Bags contain ramen noodles, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal, granola bars, and canned goods to last 2-3 days. |
| Current Usage | Only two students have utilized the lockers since installation. |
| History | The Big Blue Pantry was initiated in 2014 and is currently a university-supported program. |
| Donations | The pantry accepts shelf-stable food donations and monetary contributions to support its mission. |
| Impact on Students | Food insecurity is linked to negative outcomes in academic performance and mental health. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Kentucky Launches Food Lockers to Combat Student Hunger
Disaster Response Launches in Eastern Kentucky
Additional Resources
- Kentucky Lantern: Emergency Food Lockers for Students
- LEX18: Big Blue Pantry Expands
- LEX18: Essential Food Assistance Program
- WDRB: University of Kentucky Pantry
- LEX18: Donations for Citations Program
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