CINCINNATI — State-wide data shows that 1.3 million Ohioans struggle with food insecurity, about one in every 9 people. It's an issue organizations and institutions are stepping up to help solve.

What You Need To Know

  • University of Cincinnati and Xavier University are partnering to bring awareness to food insecurity

  • UC looking to bridge the gap with its Bearcat Pantry and Resource Center

  • Food, hygiene products and clothing are just some of the free items they offer

  • They've served more than 1,100 students this year

On Friday, University of Cincinnati Associate Dean of Students Daniel S. Cummins was preparing everything for the Bearcat Pantry and Resource Center in anticipation of the annual rivalry Crosstown Shootout basketball game against Xavier University. 

“We wanted to bring the issue, heighten the awareness around food insecurity, to the community who support both institutions,” said Cummins. 

Since 2016, the Bearcat Pantry has served thousands of students. And with rising prices at the grocery store due to inflation, they expect to help even more. National data shows that nearly 40% of college students struggle with food insecurity. 

“This year alone we have served over 1,100 students and last year alone we served totality about 2,000 students,” he said. “So we’re well on the pace to have the most students visit and utilize the BCP.”

Fruits and vegetables, canned food and drinks are just some of what you can find at the BCP. It’s all free for UC students, made possible through donations. 

“In order for students to academically do their best they have to have nutrition, the body and the mind,” he said. “The mind is the strongest muscle in the body and it needs to have nutrition to perform in the classroom.”

BCP also provides professional clothing to students for work, plus hygiene and household items.

“We know that trying to provide support in a holistic atmosphere is critical to the success of the students,” he said. 

Cummins said this has been a huge help and success for the students, who have shared their appreciation on the "gratitude wall" and to Cummins personally. 

“Students reply it’s great, we really appreciate what you’re doing for us, I don’t know where I would be or what I’d be doing if I didn’t have this as a resource,” he said. 

BCP is open during the winter break. For more information about donations and operation hours click here.