The Knights Helping Knights Pantry began from a class project in a first year LEAD Scholars course in 2009. UCF students wanted to create a food pantry where fellow students would have access to free necessities if they fell on hard times. This grass roots initiative strived to ensure that UCF students would not have to choose between buying text books or buying groceries. Since its inception, the Knights Helping Knights Pantry has expanded from a closet at the Student Union to its own suite located in Ferrell Commons attached to the All Knight Study facility. Currently, the Knights Helping Knights Pantry is supported by the Student Union and funded by the Student Government Association and generous community donors.
From the beginning our goal has been to help students. We do our best to do so every day with the help of so many campus partners. The UCF community continues to unite in support of our efforts through hosting food drives, volunteering at the Pantry, and donating to support our continuing operations.
The Knights Helping Knights Pantry is committed to serving UCF students by providing basic needs including food, clothing, and personal hygiene items to foster continued academic success and increase retention for students in need.
Access to the Knights Pantry is reserved for UCF Students who present a valid Student ID upon entry. Students are limited to 5 food items per day. There is currently no limit for toiletries or clothing.
The Knights Pantry relies on the support of students, faculty, and staff. Donations of food, toiletries, or clothing (business professional or casual) can be dropped off at the Pantry in Ferrell Commons or to one of our many donation boxes around campus. Campus donation boxes can be found on the UCF Mobile app maps.
In addition to tangible donations, the Knights Panty accepts monetary donations to ensure food is available when demand is high. Our partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank helps us use these funds to purchase food for stock the pantry for students in need. Click the the green donate button to make a donation through the UCF Foundation’s secure web portal.
Food drives sponsored by campus and community partners are the Knights Pantry’s bread and butter. Through the help of student organizations, campus departments, and local businesses we are able to help ensure UCF students are not going hungry. If you would like to set up a Food Drive to support the Knights Pantry, check out the resources below or contact a member of the Pantry team.
The Pantry would not be able to keep our doors open without the help of student volunteers. Here at the Knights Pantry we are so lucky to have a team of dedicated students who donate their time to help process donations, assist students, and facilitate our day to day operations. If you are interested in getting more involved as a volunteer, read the FAQ below and then submit an online volunteer application.
Need additional help? The Knights Pantry team has assembled a list of additional community resources that can provide help beyond food, clothing, and toiletries. The document below lists local organizations from healthcare to childcare and more.
The Knights Pantry operates when school is in session. During break periods, holidays, and game days we are closed. Below is a list of local food pantries that can assist when the Knights Pantry is closed.
Branch pantries are present on the following UCF campuses; Daytona Beach, Cocoa, Sanford-Lake Mary, Lake Nona, Downtown, (Rosen coming soon)