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Food Assistance

We support, because we care.

Because your success is important to us, we are here to help you access GRCC and community resources so you can focus on your education, such as: Food, Utility Costs, Housing Costs, Housing Resources, Transportation (i.e bus passes, gas, etc), Auto Repairs, Healthcare/Medical Needs, Tuition and Fees, Textbooks and School Supplies, Internet Access, SNAP benefits (food assistance), Childcare, etc. 

Please fill out the GET HELP contact form and a staff member will be in contact with you.

GET HELP contact and Emergency Fund intake form 

GRCC Resources

Grand Rapids Community College Student Government, the GRCC Foundation, and the Office of Student Life and Conduct are proud to offer the GRCC Student Food Pantry. This pantry is designed to meet the immediate food needs of its students on campus by providing a variety of free food items and basic necessities to students and their families. This has since expanded to multiple Snack Pantry locations, and has worked in partnership with Feeding America West Michigan, Plainsong Farm and the generous donations from community partners and GRCC faculty and staff.

GRCC is an equal opportunity provider.

Student Food Pantry & Food Distribution

The Student Food Pantry is open during Student Life operating hours, which is traditionally Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Please check in at the Student Life Office on the first floor of the Student Center.

The Student Food Pantry Intake Form is available online or in the office for the Winter 2024 Semester.

Take a tour of the Food Pantry

How to Access the Food Pantry

Eligibility
  • Students that are enrolled in classes for the current semester may utilize the pantry. This includes the week their classes start as well as the week following their exams. If enrollment changes at any time during the academic semester, access to the pantry may be reapproved or denied based on eligibility. The Student Food Pantry Intake Form must be completed once a semester during the semester they are enrolled. 
  • Students must provide their valid Raider Card (Student ID), which is held on to by front office staff while students shop.

What to Expect When Using the Pantry
  • First Visits: 
    • After completing necessary intake forms you will receive two tote bags (one canvas and one thermal). Please bring back these bags for each visit.
    • Note that only the student themselves may enter the pantry area and personal backpacks are not permitted into the pantry. 
    • Your student ID will be held on to by office staff until you are finished at the pantry. 
  • Returning Visits:
    • Visits are limited to once per week.
    • The pantry is considered “self-serve” with a limit to the student’s two designated bags. Students are asked to be considerate when selecting items, however most items do not have an enforced limit. 
    • Bringing extra bags is not permitted.
    • Certain hygiene items such as diapers, wipes, laundry detergent, paper towels, etc. may be requested and are kept in a separate stocking area–these items are limited so that we can better serve all of our students.
    • The pantry offers a variety of items such as non perishables, refrigerated and frozen foods, hygiene products, and baby items. These items vary throughout the year.

Types of items offered at the food pantry
  • Non-perishables (examples: soup, noodles, rice, beans, cereal, side dishes, canned fruits and veggies, etc.).
  • Refrigerated and frozen foods (examples: eggs, fresh produce, frozen meats, etc.).
  • Hygiene items (examples: travel size shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, menstrual hygiene products, etc.).
  • Baby items (examples: diapers, wipes, baby food, formula, etc.).

How to Donate

Our Food and Snack Pantries rely on the community’s support to keep running. Donations (see the Pantry List for examples,) can be dropped off at the Student Life Office, bought from the Amazon Wish List, or you can donate designated funds online or in person at the GRCC Foundation Office. 

Terms and Conditions

I understand that food can only be picked up by the currently enrolled Grand Rapids Community College student who completed this intake form and that this intake form is only good for one academic term. Students must present their valid Raider Card and complete the intake form for each academic term they wish to participate in the program. Food can be picked up once per week when classes are in session (and one week following exams) using the two specific GRCC bags. These bags will be provided on the first visit and must be brought back by  to receive food on all future visits.

I understand that food I receive from the Grand Rapids Community College Food Pantry has been donated or purchased from several on-campus and off-campus partners and that none of the parties or groups involved in the program make any guarantees as to the quality of the food or its value for any particular purposes. Some of the food distributed at the Grand Rapids Community College Food Pantry has surpassed its “best by” consumption date. The USDA states that “best if used by or before” date is recommended for best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

By completing this form, I release Grand Rapids Community College, and the original donor from any liability or harm (including injury or death) or losses in connection with the food or supplies I have received. I assume any risks and covenant not to sue the released parties with respect to such harm or losses.

I understand that the Grand Rapids Community College Food Pantry operates on limited funds and by support of others. I will only request and take items that I reasonably expect myself and/or my family to use. I understand that this is a volunteer program run by donations. We cannot guarantee that we will have food available, but we can suggest additional locations/resources.

I understand that the failure to comply with the GRCC Student Food Pantry terms and conditions for eligibility and participation could cause my access to the food pantry to be revoked.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

  • Students requesting exceptions to these terms must meet with the Student Resources Coordinator to review eligibility. Meeting with the Student Resources Coordinator does not guarantee an exception will be made.
  • Please note that Raider Card Policies, Section 3. General Terms and Conditions state, “Students are required to possess a valid RaiderCard and carry it at all times while on the GRCC campus. The RaiderCard must be presented to GRCC officials upon an appropriate request,” and “RaiderCards are to be used only by the person to whom it is issued and only the Cardholder can present the card for debit and other privileges. GRCC reserves the right to confiscate any RaiderCard which is presented by someone other than the Cardholder or if the Cardholder violates any GRCC policies and procedures.”
  • Failure to abide by the agreement will revoke your access to the pantry until a new agreement has been decided upon. 

If you have any questions about your eligibility or need additional resources, please contact the Student Resources Coordinator, Rebecca, at (616) 234-2544.

Snack Pantries

There are currently nine Snack Pantries on campus. The Snack Pantries provide grab-and-go food options for students and are maintained in partnership by Student Life and Conduct and various departments on campus. The Snack Pantries do not require registration, however availability may be subject to the offices' open hours of operation.

Snack Pantry locations
  • English, 400 College Park Plaza
  • Student Services, First Floor RJF
  • Veterans Center, G2 RJF
  • Library and Learning Commons
  • ATC - Computer Lab
  • Sneden Hall, First Floor
  • Tassell MTec
  • Lakeshore Campus
  • Student Center, Third Floor

Unsure where any of these locations are? Check our campus map!

Public Microwave Locations

The following microwave locations are available on-campus for public use. Do not leave your food unattended and please cover your food when reheating. 

  • ATC, 2nd Floor-Snack room by Foodology.
  • Calkins Science Center, 1st Floor-Northwest atrium near the vending machines.
  • Cook Hall, 1st Floor-Northwest student study area near College Park Plaza crosswalk.
  • Lakeshore, 1st Floor-Learning commons near the vending machines and snack pantry.
  • Library & Learning Commons (LLC, 1st Floor-Atrium across from the library entrance.
  • MTEC, 1st Floor-Atrium near the vending machines.
  • RJF (Formerly Main Building), 2nd Floor-near the vending machines and elevators.
  • RJF (Formerly Main Building), 4th Floor In the open seating space across from elevators.
  • RJF (Formerly Main Building), 5th Floor-West End student study area near the vending machines.
  • RJF (Formerly Main Building), G2 Winchester Ally by Subway.
  • Student Center, 3rd Floor-Near the elevator and terrace entrance.
  • Student Center, 2nd Floor outside of the Quiet Cafe.
  • Sneden Hall (DeVos), 1st Floor-Sneden Cafe.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) offers food assistance!

Please visit the MI Bridges/State Assistance landing page for more information. Students may apply through MIBridges. If you need assistance applying, please fill out the GetHelp intake form.

Community Resources

United Way – 211

Heart of West Michigan United Way – 211 connects people to more than 2,900 services in Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Osceola and Oceana Counties including food, shelter, utility assistance, disaster recovery, childcare, transportation, and more. Call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211* to find resources available to you. (*Standard message and data rates may apply.)

Access of West Michigan

Access of West Michigan equips community partners by investing in the local food economy to create a just food system for everyone in our community. Check out their list of Good Food Partner Programs for more information. https://accessofwestmichigan.org/good-food-systems/

Baxter Community Center Marketplace

Baxter’s Marketplace provides emergency food assistance and emergency clothing assistance and also provides fresh produce to the pantry. Their community center also offers medical and dental services.
935 Baxter St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Community Food Club 

The Community Food Club is a non-profit, member-based grocery store. Members pay between $11 and $15 for a 30-day membership and are able to shop in the store using points based on their household size. Most members receive 9 to 11 days' worth of food or about $120 worth of food during each membership period. All that is needed to open an account is a valid ID for the head of household. 
1100 South Division Ave. Grand Rapids, MI 49507

Eastern Ave. Christian Reformed Church

Eastern Avenue Christian Reformed Church serves the community with their Saturday Food Program. They provide fruits, vegetables, bread and canned food at very low prices. Everyone is welcome. You do not have to apply ahead of time. You are not required to provide any form of documentation of your income, your address, or your identity. Please check their website for distribution and arrival times. https://www.eacrc.org/saturday-food-program 
514 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank

The Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank nationwide network of food banks secures and distributes 4.3 billion meals each year through food pantries and meal programs throughout the United States.  Contact your local community food bank to find food or find more locations.

feedwm.org/findfood  
Call:  (616) 784-3250

Fulton Street Farmers Market

Fulton Street Farmers Market provides convenient access to high quality, locally grown, farm fresh products. This permanent, year-round marketplace also accepts several food assistance programs such as EBT/Bridge Snap usage as well as WIC Project Fresh that offers an additional $25 to eligible recipients of WIC. (WIC cash benefits do not apply to this program.)
1145 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

AYA Youth Collective

AYA Youth Collective (formerly HQ-Grand Rapids) is a safe space to meet basic needs such as laundry, hygiene, meals, and showers for youth ages 14-24 by “Drop-In” appointments.
Additional resources include support case management, counseling, housing and relationship needs. HQ was created to help young people find a place to rest, obtain resources and connections, and receive support through professional skill building.
320 State Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503


Kent County Community Action: The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

Kent County Community Action partners with multiple site locations to provide food to qualifying Kent county residents. Those eligible can pick up at one location once a month, no proof of information is needed. Hours of availability vary by location, a full list of participating locations can be found on their website.

North End Community Ministry  

North End Community Ministry offers a Client-Choice Food Pantry to all of those located in our pantry service area. The pantry provides our clients with a 3-4 day supply of food and personal care products once a month. Visit their website to view their locations and hours. http://necmgr.org/ 

North Kent Connect Market Pantry

North Kent Connect assists residents of northern Kent County with resources for food, housing, job services, and more. Visit their site to find your service area or to connect with a case manager. https://nkconnect.org/get-help

North West Food Pantry

The Northwest Food Pantry location supplies emergency food and support to individuals and families once a month. VVisit their website for eligibility criteria. 
Open Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:30-11:45 a.m.  Those who have appointments will be served first, starting at 9 a.m.  Phone pre-orders from 12:30-2 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
*Alguien que habla español está disponible los lunes, miércoles, y viernes.
1224 Davis Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

SECOM Resource Center Market Program and Healthy Food Pantry

SECOM is committed to providing nutritious food to its neighbors. It is widely recognized that nutrition is a key component in maintaining health and preventing chronic disease. There is strong evidence that those affected by food insecurity are at the highest risk for obesity and other diet related illnesses. We believe that every person has the right to access healthy foods. 

  • The Healthy Food Pantry is available once a month, no documentation required. Visit their site for more hours and information.
  • The Market Program provides fresh and healthy food at a reduced cost. Accepts cash, EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, Senior Project Fresh, and WIC Project Fresh.  
    1545 Buchanan Ave SW Grand Rapids, MI, 49507

Streams Healthy Neighborhood Hub: Food Center and Community Garden

Streams Healthy Neighborhood Hub provides supplemental food to local families using a client-choice environment that protects the dignity of each visitor and encourages relationships. 

The Other Way Food Pantry and Fresh Market

The Other Way Food Pantry and Fresh Market provides weekday food assistance. No documents necessary –operates on a self-declared need basis.
710 W. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

The Salvation Army: Kent County

The Salvation Army: Kent County Food Pantry is open designated hours each week and available to households across the county who are in need of emergency food to sustain themselves. The Pantry commits to securing as many fresh and healthy food items as possible in order to provide well-balanced orders of groceries that last 3 to 5 days.
1215 E. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

UCOM: Healthy Choice Food Pantry and Farm Stand

UCOM Resources is a partner program of the Access of West Michigan network. Anyone living within the UCOM service area is eligible to receive food at the Healthy Choice Food Pantry. Visit their website to view service hours and eligible locations. https://www.ucomgr.org/home 

  • The Farm Stand provides fresh and healthy produce at a reduced cost. Accepts cash, EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, Senior Project Fresh, and WIC Project Fresh.  
  • Healthy Choice Food Pantry is an appointment based pantry serving the UCOM service area.

Westminster Presbyterian Church: Downtown Food Pantry

Westminster Presbyterian Church's Downtown Food Pantry is open to GRCC students and provides a 3–5 day supply of emergency food and personal care products to visitors, once every 30 days. The pantry is located at the church and open on Thursdays from 10:30am - 2:30pm.  All you need to bring with you is a valid ID or a piece of mail with your current address.
47 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Find additional resources

Please consider some of the other options available to you on the GetHelp webpage as well as various options near you. The Find Help site can help you find resources and other free or reduced cost programs depending on your need, and United Way – 211 is another option that connects people to more than 2,900 services.

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