Basic Needs Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is a food program that is designed by students to meet the short-term, immediate food needs of all UC Berkeley students. This includes undergraduate and graduate, undocumented, international, visiting scholars, student researchers, and postdocs. 

Important Reminders:

  • We are currently located in bNorth, lower level of MLK Jr. Student Union
  • This resource is only for UC Berkeley Students (includes Undergrad, Grad, and Visiting Scholar/Postdoc)
  • You can visit up to once per week.
  • You need your Cal ID or Cal ID Number.
  • Not a student? Check out these community food resources and this webpage for the staff pantry.

Food Pantry Hours (Fall 24)

We are now closed for Winter Break, please check back soon for Spring Schedule!

How to Access the Food Pantry

Step 1: Sign Up on Our Virtual Line

The Food Pantry virtual line opens during our Pantry open hours, listed above. You can sign-up from anywhere on campus. If you don’t have a phone number, please come in-person and sign-up at the Pantry check-in table.

The line will close during daily restock times and if it fills up.

Step 2: Check-In Upstairs When it is Your Turn

You will receive a text message confirming you are in line, and reminding you to bring a bag and your Cal ID.

Please wait until you receive the text saying you are at the front of the line before coming to check-in. You have up to 15 minutes once you receive the front of the line text to check-in.

If you have technical difficulties joining the line or do not receive a text, please come to the check-in table at the bNorth entrance.

Step 3: Visit the Pantry

After scanning your Cal ID or inputting you Student ID # at check-in, you can go downstairs and visit the Food Pantry. After choosing your items, you’ll proceed to the checkout station and we’ll scan your items to keep our inventory up to date. Everything is free, but to ensure we have enough for everyone, please only take what you need.

Step 4: Share Your Feedback

At the end of your visit, you’ll receive a text asking for any feedback you have about whether the Food Pantry met your immediate food needs.

Food Pantry Check-In on 1st Floor of MLK Student Union

Student Virtual Line

The virtual line opens at the start of Food Pantry hours

Food Pantry FAQs

Community Food Resources
What drew me to the food pantry was the people and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Basic Needs Food Pantry is a place where students can find support without fear of judgment.
Maria, Food Pantry Lead, Class of 2025