Bears Can-Do Food Drive

The Bear Pantry, created in 2019, was set up to support students’ basic needs and combat food insecurity on campus. Last year, the pantry consistently served an estimated 1,200 households and distributed more than 50,000 pounds of food.  

Missouri State University’s Enrollment Management team is sponsoring a donation drive to provide support to Bear Pantry’s initiative and to the campus community that may be facing food insecurity. Enrollment Management is challenging fellow campus offices and departments to donate food and/or funding to the Bear Pantry between November 7th through December12th. All staff and faculty are welcomed and encouraged to participate. The department that donates the most food per employee will win our competition and receive an award to display at their front desk. 

The Bear Pantry accepts many items for donation. Shelf stable items like canned and dried goods, or spice; even perishable items like fresh produce, eggs, and dairy products. You can also donate general household items like cleaning supplies, paper goods, hygiene items, etc. See the donation guide in the photo carousel for more ideas!

Important 

• $1 donated = 5 pounds of food 
• Donations accepted at Bear Pantry (PSU 140) during business hours (see hours here) Be sure to let a team member know which department you work for to receive credit! 
• To win, your office must donate the most food (in pounds) per person. Financial contributions will be converted and considered in calculations. 

The winning office will be announced prior to winter break, with an award presented during the Staff Award Luncheon on January 7, 2026.  

Let’s show everyone that Bears Can-Do Food Drives! 

Thank you for your support.

If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Smith.

*Your charitable donation is tax-deductible.