Dealing with food insecurity and other stressors during these times of uncertainty while trying to succeed academically can feel overwhelming. It is important we acknowledge the toll these changes can have on our mental health and ensure we share what supports are available to help on-campus and in our communities.
What you can do
Familiarize yourself with food assistance locations on- and off-campus so you know where to go when you need it and what types of food you can expect.
If you know someone who may be struggling, consider sharing the following resources with them; sometimes the hardest step is knowing where to go. If you are a faculty or staff member, we encourage you to share this information with your colleagues and students.
If you are in a position where you can support others, consider donating to the Pop-Up Pantry, Office of the Dean of Students emergency fund or your local food bank. Any contribution can go a long way in supporting individuals and their families.
For Emergency Use
Flames Fare
$50.00 to $75.00 is placed on students' I-card (requests for this resource are limited). Call the Wellness Center for immediate action. Monies are placed on the card usually within 24 hours. Ask for: Carol, Tamara, or Julia for assistance. We will need the students' names, UINs, and emails. The final step before processing is that it will be reviewed by the Office of Financial Aid to determine whether it affects students' aid packages.
Pop-Up Pantry
In case of an emergency call the Wellness Center's front desk, ask to speak to one of the staff, and we will arrange to have the student shop that day or the next, regardless of whether or not the Pantry is open. Under there emergency conditions the student is allowed to shop for more food.
U & I Care Meals
U & I Care Meals provides support for students with immediate food needs. All undergraduate, graduate and professional students enrolled in at least three credit hours can apply for up to 10 meal swipes. Visit the U & I Care Meals website for additional details and to apply.
Office of the Dean of Students
The Office of the Dean of Students supports students experiencing personal hardship and in need of resources of assistance. If you don't have enough to eat or don't know where your next meal is coming from, request assistance through the basic needs form.
For Non-Emergency Use
- UIC Pop-Up Pantry - Student Center East Tower, 2nd Floor
The Pop-Up Pantry is a free resource for all UIC students open on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. To learn more, or to register to use, contact the Wellness Center at wellnesscenter@uic.edu, call 312-413-2120, or visit the Pop-Up Pantry website. - Dion’s Chicago Dream Vault - Student Center West Basement
The Dream Vault offers healthy fruits and vegetables at no cost to health sciences students facing food insecurity. Lockers are stocked each morning with fresh produce. Registration is required to utilize the lockers. Availability is limited; however, registration is ongoing and names will be added to a waiting list and accepted as spots become available. For more information, contact the Wellness Center at wellnesscenter@uic.edu. - UI Healthy Student Dining Card
Students can receive a free meal from the hospital's Taylor Street Cafe. This program can be used multiple times a week; however, hours of use are limited. For more details, please reach out to the Wellness Center.
Resources in UIC schools and colleges
Mental health and well-being support
The Counseling Center offers a wide range of confidential services at no additional cost to eligible UIC students. To request an initial consultation or learn more, call 312-996-3490.
Crisis services are available 24/7 by contacting 312-996-3490. If calling after hours, on weekends or on holidays, select “2” during the automated message.
Statewide mental health support
