Viking Food Pantry

A Resource for Students

Viking Food Pantry

A Resource for Students

Serving VCSU Students

The Viking Food Pantry is here to support current VCSU students who may be facing food insecurity. Whether you're dealing with an unexpected financial hardship, a tight budget, or simply need some help getting by, the pantry is a safe and welcoming space for you.

Location & Hours

The Viking Pantry is located in McFarland 131 and is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

What We Offer

A variety of non-perishable food items
Select refrigerated goods
Essential personal hygiene products
Passes for a meal at the Cafe

We are committed to creating a judgment-free, confidential resource to help ensure all students have what they need to thrive academically and personally. At Valley City State University, we recognize that no student should have to choose between their education and a basic need like food. If you're a VCSU student in need, please know you're not alone—and we're here for you.

Online Order Form

3 Ways to Access the Viking Food Pantry

Stop By In Person
Visit us at McFarland 131 during regular operating hours to shop for available items.
Order Online
Reserve food and hygiene items in advance through our online ordering system for convenient pick-up.
Email Us
Have questions, special dietary needs, or require emergency assistance? Email food.pantry@vcsu.edu and our team will be happy to help.

Items to Donate

Non-Perishable Items
Canned goods, pastas, dry goods, snacks
Refrigerated Items
Proteins, fruits, freezer meals
Personal Care Items
Soaps, hair care, personal hygiene

How You Can Support the Viking Pantry

We often hear, "I want to help, but I don't know what to buy." You're not alone, and we're here to make it easy. Whether you're making a monetary donation or shopping for non-perishable food, personal care items, or refrigerated essentials, every donation makes a difference. Check out our detailed list at the link below for donation ideas. Monetary donations for the pantry can be made at the VCSU Foundation Office.

Detailed List of Donation Ideas

Resources

Stretch your dollars, fuel your body

When you're balancing school, work, and life, cooking healthy meals can feel challenging — especially on a budget. But with a few simple tips and a little planning, you can eat well and save money.

Smart Grocery Shopping Tips

• Plan meals before you shop to cut down on waste.
• Stick to a grocery list — use apps like AnyList or Google Keep.
• Buy in bulk (rice, oats, beans, etc.).
• Shop store brands — they’re often cheaper with the same quality.
• Look for sales and use coupons on pantry items and frozen goods.

Pantry Staples Worth Stocking

Keep these on hand for quick, affordable meals:
• Rice, pasta, and oats
• Canned beans and veggies
• Peanut butter and canned tuna
• Frozen vegetables and eggs
• Tomato sauce, spices (salt, pepper, garlic, chili)

Sample $25 Weekly Meal Plan (for 1 person)

Breakfast
• Overnight oats with peanut butter & banana
• Toast with eggs

Lunch
• Rice bowl with beans, salsa & corn
• Tuna sandwich + carrot sticks

Dinner
• Pasta with sauce + frozen veggies
• Stir-fried rice with egg & veggies
• Baked potatoes topped with beans & cheese

Snacks
• Popcorn, apples, or granola bars

Helpful Links & Resources

Awareness is the first step to support. Food insecurity affects nearly 1 in 3 college students across the U.S. — and it's not always visible. If you’ve ever skipped a meal, stressed about affording groceries, or relied on cheap, low-nutrition foods to get by, you’ve likely experienced it too. You are not alone — and there is no shame in seeking support.

What is Food Insecurity?

Food insecurity means having limited or uncertain access to enough food to live a healthy, active life. It can range from occasionally skipping meals to not knowing where your next meal will come from.

How It Affects College Students

• Increases stress and anxiety
• Impacts academic performance and concentration
• Affects physical and mental health
• May lead to isolation or shame. College is hard enough — food shouldn't be an added worry.

Common Myths About Food Insecurity

• “If I have housing, I’m fine.”
You can have stable housing and still struggle with food.

• “It’s not bad enough to ask for help.”
If you're skipping meals or cutting portions, help is meant for you.

• “The food pantry is for someone else.”
The pantry is for any VCSU student who needs it — no questions, no judgment.

Support and Solidarity

Using campus resources like the Viking Food Pantry is an act of self-care and strength. The more we talk openly about food insecurity, the more we reduce stigma and create a campus where everyone can thrive.

Join us in supporting VCSU students — every donation makes a difference.

The Viking Food Pantry relies on the generous support of the VCSU and Valley City community to keep our shelves stocked and our students nourished. When you donate, you're doing more than giving food — you're helping students stay focused, healthy, and supported throughout their college journey.

Donate Food or Supplies

We gladly accept:
• Non-perishable food items (soups, pasta, rice, canned fruits/veggies, etc.)
• Hygiene products (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, menstrual care, shaving products)
• Small refrigerated items (check in with pantry staff first)
View our full donation list for specific items!

Drop-off location

McFarland Hall, Room 131 – During pantry hours or by appointment
Have a large donation or special items to contribute? Email food.pantry@vcsu.edu to coordinate.

Give a Monetary Donation

Monetary donations for the pantry can be made at the VCSU Foundation Office, McFarland Hall, Room 212. The Foundation Office also has options to give online or through payroll deduction. You can also check to see if your employer provides matching funds or community donations.
Financial contributions help us:
• Purchase high-need or perishable items
• Restock low-inventory essentials
• Provide emergency support for students in crisis

Shop Local, Order Online or Deliver

1) Shop Local
If you're in or around Valley City, consider picking up non-perishable items, select refrigerated goods, or hygiene products at local stores like Leevers, Dollar General, Family Dollar or other grocery stores. Items can be dropped off directly at the pantry (McFarland 131).

2) Ship Items from Afar
Out of state or too far to drive? No problem! Check out our donation recommendations and use Amazon to ship items directly to the Viking Food Pantry. Bonus: Amazon offers bulk options that stretch your generosity even further.
Shipping Address:
Viking Food Pantry
Valley City State University
101 College Street SW, McFarland 131
Valley City, ND 58072

3) Deliver via Doordash or Local Grocery Delivery
Short on time? You can still support students by scheduling a grocery delivery through Doordash, Instacart, or other local delivery services. Simply have the items delivered to the pantry location. No matter the method, your generosity helps fuel academic success and student well-being. Thank you for being part of the VCSU family and supporting our mission of care and community.

Get Involved Year-Round

• Host a donation drive
• Spread the word about the pantry
• Volunteer with us — we’re always looking for helping hands!
Together, we can ensure that no student goes hungry at VCSU. Thank you for being part of a caring, responsive community that shows up when it matters most.