Campus Food Pantry (SHOP)

Students Helping Our Peers (SHOP) is a student-run, on-campus food pantry. SHOP’s vision is to alleviate food insecurity while collaborating with Iowa State University and the Ames Community. SHOP’s mission is to serve the student population and the Ames community by increasing hunger awareness and food security. Donations from individuals, campus organizations, the community, and an ISU Foundation account keep food on the shelves of the pantry. SHOP also operates a satellite food pantry at the Sloss House on campus. 

The SHOP Pantry is open to all students and confidential. There is no requirement to disclose income or demonstrate need.

SHOP is located at 1306 Beyer Hall. 

Weekly Hours:

Monday 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Tuesday 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Wednesday 2:00 - 7:00 p.m.

SHOP pantry
SHOP pantry
SHOP pantry

Give a Swipe Program

The Give a Swipe program allows students to donate their Flex Meals or Dining Dollars (commonly called "swipes") to other students in need of meal assistance. How to Donate Swipes

If you are a student that needs to access these emergency meals, please a reach out to any of the following partners of the Give A Swipe program:

Community Resources

The following are resources that are not provided by Iowa State University, but still may be able to help students.

United Way Story County

  • Comprehensive list of resources including food, rent, housing, and financial need assistance available in Story county.

Community Food Pantries

  • Click here to access a list of community food pantries in Story County, Iowa. If you aren’t within walking distance or don’t have a car, you can take CyRide to the food pantries.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

  • SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency.

Women Infant Children Program (WIC)

  • Personalized support for anyone who is pregnant, a caregiver, or a mom w/ a child under 5. 

National Hunger Hotline

  • You can also call The National Hunger Hotline to find emergency food providers in the community, government assistance programs, and various social services. The hotline can be reached Monday through Friday by calling 1-866-3-HUNGRY.