Food Pantry

Riverland student stocking shelves in the campus food pantry

Riverland Food Pantry

The Riverland Food Pantry supports students facing food insecurity by providing food, personal care items, and household essentials across multiple campus locations.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of the Riverland Food Pantry is to fight food insecurity in the Riverland community by providing food, clothing, and household items to students in need.

The pantry is available to all currently enrolled Riverland students. Food insecurity may include limited access to reliable food, reduced quality or variety of food, or concern about having enough to eat.

Using the Pantry

Students check into the pantry using their Riverland Student ID.

  • Students may take up to three items per day
  • Includes food, snacks, and personal or household items

Pet Care Supplies: The pantry also offers supplies for pets. Donations of packaged pet items are accepted anytime the pantry is open.

Hours and Locations

Austin East

Library, First Floor (behind Circulation Desk)

Austin West

Hallway outside Cafeteria

  • Shelf-stable items only
  • Monday through Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Closed holidays

Owatonna

Student Services area

Available during Student Services hours

Albert Lea

Student Services area

Available during Student Services hours

Donating to the Pantry

The Riverland Food Pantry accepts donations of food, personal care items, and household supplies.

Monetary donations are also accepted through the Riverland Foundation and are used to support the pantry’s greatest needs.

To donate, contact advocacy@riverland.edu.

Items in High Demand

Food Items

  • Bread, tortillas, taco shells
  • Granola bars, cereal, oatmeal
  • Milk, eggs, yogurt, cheese
  • Canned fruits, vegetables, beans
  • Pasta, rice, sauces, soups
  • Peanut butter, jelly
  • Frozen meats
  • Cooking staples (oil, spices, sugar, flour)

Personal Care Items

  • Toothpaste and toothbrushes
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap and body wash
  • Deodorant
  • Toilet paper and tissues
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Laundry detergent