CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – This week, students at the University of Northern Iowa can help combat food insecurity in the Cedar Valley. New this year, Panthers Against Hunger allows students the opportunity to donate up to $20 of their unused dining dollars to help students in need get a hot meal. The program is a partnership between the Panther Pantry, the Dean of Students and the Student Emergency Fund, and UNI Housing and Dining. 

“Food insecurity affects college students in a number of ways,” said Dean of Students Allyson Rafanello. “With an increase of students who are identifying as food insecure at a particular moment, we know that eating a hot meal in a supportive environment may not always be feasible. Panthers Against Hunger gives students the opportunity to enjoy a healthy meal in a supportive environment while balancing difficult life circumstances.”

The program is taking donations of dining dollars this week only, Monday Sept. 25 through Monday, Oct. 2. “We’re leading this initiative headed into UNI Family Weekend, because being part of the Panther Family means we take care of each other,” said Connie Hansen, associate director of student involvement.

Panther Pantry offers free food and basic necessity items to students that are enrolled at the University of Northern Iowa. Items in the pantry may include canned fruit and vegetables, soup, pastas, beans, rice, cereal, personal hygiene products and cleaning products.

UNI students who wish to contribute donations of their dining dollars are led to a form, which is active for the next week. Faculty, alumni and friends of UNI can also give monetary donations through a different form. Monetary donations will continue to be accepted after Oct. 2.

Students who may benefit from Panthers Against Hunger will be able to apply later in October.