UTSA and Texas State raise over $85K for their food pantries

SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 — The Huddle Against Hunger challenge, held from Friday, August 30, to Saturday, September 7, 2024, concluded with Texas State University and UTSA raising more than $85,000 to fight food insecurity.

UTSA rallied 942 donors, raising about $22,600, while Texas State gathered 1,115 supporters and raised over $33,000. All funds from the challenge will go directly to stock each university’s food pantry, providing critical resources as the new academic year begins. 

UTSA’s Roadrunner Pantry and Whataburger Resource Room and Texas State's Bobcat Bounty are essential lifelines for students, ensuring access to nutritious food and personal care items. While Texas State will claim the top prize of $18,000, UTSA will receive $12,000 as the runner-up. These additional funds will support both universities’ pantries. Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union provided $25,000 to the prize pool. Alterman contributed $5,000.

In all, the two schools raised $86,267. 

“Your generosity will support something very meaningful at UTSA by keeping Roadrunner Pantry shelves stocked year-round so that students can remain nourished while focusing on their studies.”

UTSA alumnus, Pat Clynes ’89 also extended a challenge to Roadrunner Pantry supporters. His gift of $2,500 was unlocked once UTSA reached 250 donors. 

“It was a privilege for our team to partner with colleagues at Texas State on this impactful initiative. We are proud of our combined success benefitting students across both our campuses,” said Karl Miller Lugo, UTSA vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “Thank you to all the donors who participated. Your generosity will support something very meaningful at UTSA by keeping Roadrunner Pantry shelves stocked year-round so that students can remain nourished while focusing on their studies.”

The Huddle Against Hunger challenge highlighted the critical issue of food insecurity among college students. Nearly half of students surveyed in a recent study reported experiencing food insecurity, underscoring the importance of community-driven efforts in addressing this ongoing issue and supporting student success.

Together, the Roadrunner Pantry and Whataburger Resource Room at the Main and Downtown campuses average 150 visits per day and have been utilized more than 55,000 times since opening in 2017.

— Heather Green