Where to get food help at UT Austin
Five places to look when your food budget runs short
Use the resource that fits your immediate need. Pantry groceries, a temporary dining card and event leftovers have different availability and eligibility.
- Free groceries · UT OutpostCurrently enrolled students can visit once a week and shop for up to 20 pounds of food per month. Check the current pantry hours and Saturday schedule before heading over.
- Temporary dining card · Fuel the FortyEligible students without a meal plan can request a card with five swipes at J2 or Kins. The program asks about food insecurity and reviews requests.
- Campus event leftovers · UT FREE Food ChannelFollow the MyUT channel link on the Outpost page. Messages identify leftover food after participating events, so use the pantry or food bank if you need a dependable trip.
- Neighborhood groceries · Central Texas Food BankUse the food finder to look for a nearby distribution. Confirm the date, what to bring and whether you can reach it before going.
- Help navigating a longer shortage · UT Student SupportTell Student Support what you’re trying to cover and ask which campus or community resource fits. Start with the Outpost while you arrange next steps.
Check pantry hours and meal eligibility separately
Use the pantry schedule for groceries and the Fuel the Forty page for a meal card. If you already have a meal plan, the meal card has a separate eligibility rule. The pantry’s eligibility is based on current enrollment.