Food Support Initiatives

Food Support Initiatives is part of the Basic Need Programs within the Office of the Dean of Students at Seattle University. Through our Food Support Initiatives, we are committed to fostering student wellbeing by reducing food instability and inconsistency, thereby minimizing external worries and encouraging Redhawks to learn and thrive. Food Support Initiatives has three major programs: (1) Wellness Café and Food Pantry, (2) Food Recovery and Frozen Meals Distribution, and (3) Resources Education.

The Wellness Café and Food Pantry, located in Pavilion 150, is the heart of our Food Support Initiatives. Students request food through our online system, PantrySoft. Students can order up to two weeks in advance and select about 1-2 days' worth of nutritious supplemental food at no additional cost. The reusable bags containing student orders are then available during regular pantry hours. In addition, the pantry offers fresh seasonal produce from our campus Edible Garden, fresh-baked items from Redhawk Dining, donated items, and monthly personal care items, ensuring that both nutritional and everyday needs are met with dignity and respect.

PantrySoft

Our Food Recovery Program extends this commitment by capturing surplus meals from campus dining halls, repackaging, and freezing them for distribution to students. This initiative not only combats food waste but also ensures that prepared, ready-to-eat meals are available to students. By transforming excess production into opportunity, we create a sustainable cycle of care that nourishes both body and community and supports our commitment to SU's Laudato Si' Action Platform. Meals are available in the following locations:

• Veteran and Military Student Center - 1103 Building, Room 105
• Wellness Café and Food Pantry - PAVL 150
• Graduate Student and Adult Learner Link - Sinegal Room 120
• Wellness and Health Promotions Office - Student Center 380
• Center for First Generation Success - Student Center 322
• Commuter and Transfer Link - Student Center 310
• Intercultural Link - Student Center 110

As Resource Education purpose, Wellness Café and Food Ambassadors are students trained to connect their peers with Seattle University campus, local, and regional resources. Our team provides SNAP education, emergency aid resources, and referrals to community programs, supporting longer-term stability. Ambassadors also refer students to CARE Team to ensure wrap-around assistance.