About
Mission: The Bear Essentials Food Pantry works to alleviate food insecurity across the UCA community by offering free food assistance to all current students, faculty, and staff.
· Our Commitment: If you are in need of assistance, we are here to support you—no questions asked.
Location & Directions
- Address: UCA Physical Plant Building, Room 40
- Directions: The front entrance faces the T-REC. Look for the black awning and the UCA flag on the east side of the building.
Hours of Operation
Summer Hours / Fall & Spring Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm / 11:00 am -- 5:00 pm
- Friday: CLOSED
Please Note: The pantry is closed whenever the university is closed, including all scheduled academic breaks, holidays, and inclement weather closures.
Volunteer Opportunities
To volunteer at the pantry, students must first complete a mandatory orientation session.
- Orientation Schedule: Sessions are held at least once a month during the academic year.
- How to Register: Search for "Pantry Orientation/Training" below under "Opportunities." Select your preferred date and register. All training sessions are held in the Student Health Building, room 307. The session lasts one hour. If you have questions about orientation/training, email Wendy Holbrook at wendyh@uca.edu or call 501-450-3416.
- Alternative Scheduling: If you cannot attend a scheduled session but would still like to volunteer, please contact Will Baker, Pantry Coordinator, at 501-269-2593 or via email at wbaker@uca.edu to schedule an alternate orientation.
Completed Orientation and Ready to Volunteer?
Click HERE to sign up for volunteer shifts. It is important that you complete the shift that you sign up for. If you need to cancel, please go into the system and remove your name. Or notify us in GroupMe that you will not make your shift.
Connect With Us
Stay up to date on pantry news, resources, and schedule adjustments by visiting our website or following our social media channels:
- Website: uca.edu/foodpantry
- Instagram: @bearessentialsfoodpantry
- Facebook: UCA Bear Essentials
Opportunities
Recent Impacts
Causes
Sustainable Development Goals
