UTSA Whataburger Resource Room’s Move-in Market: A new way to support student success

AUGUST 24, 2022 — The UTSA Whataburger Resource Room is one of many services aligned with the university’s commitment to the holistic care of each student. Stocked with food items, toiletries, school supplies and other essentials, these pantries, located on the Main and Downtown campuses, allow students to focus on their educational goals and achieve success, instead of worrying about where they will find their next meal.

This year, the UTSA Student Union, which oversees the resource rooms, is adding a new event during Roadrunner Days — the Move-in Market. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, students can go to the H-E-B Student Union Ballroom on the Main Campus to receive Rowdy Bucks, which can be used to shop for gently used items. There is also the chance for participants to enter a drawing for a TV.

The food pantry services are made possible through partnerships with Whataburger, the San Antonio Food Bank and UTSA departments, including Campus Services, Alumni Engagement and Facility Services. The Resource Room also receives monetary and item donations from students, faculty, staff and community members.

“Having the pantry to rely on when I am running low on food or supplies in general is one of the best feelings ever.”

“That one conversation you have with the student to let them know about this resource could be life-changing for them,” said Nikki Lee, senior associate director for the event services division of the Student Union.

When asked what faculty and staff can do to better support the initiatives of the Resource Room, Lee, who oversees the food pantry operations, said it is important to encourage university employees to offer donations and to inform students about the pantries and their services.

The resource rooms have had significant, positive ripple effects for the campus community. The Downtown and Main Campus pantries served over 10,000 people during the 2021-2022 school year. The pantries also create multiple work study employment and volunteer opportunities for students each year.

Students enjoy the robust offerings and support of the pantries. They also appreciate how this service is helping to chip away at stigmas around food insecurity, at a time when inflation is having noticeable consequences for many.

“Having the pantry to rely on when I am running low on food or supplies in general is one of the best feelings ever and I'm very happy with the work that is being done here for us,” stated one student.

The Move-in Market will be accepting donations from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on August 25 and 26 in the H-E-B Student Union Ballroom.

— Nichole Lantis