With grocery prices climbing, the Saluki Food Pantry remains a valuable resource for students and their families. (Photo by Erasmus Tornye)
November 09, 2026
SIU’s Thanks “GivingBack” campus food drive is Nov. 17
CARBONDALE, Ill. — The upcoming Southern Illinois University Carbondale Thanks “GivingBack” campus food drive is a great opportunity to help Salukis in need during this holiday season.
SIU Carbondale faculty, staff and community members are invited to support the Saluki Food Pantry by donating nonperishable food items during the annual event on Nov. 17. The food pantry has served thousands of students and their families since opening in August 2016.
Donations will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Center’s first-floor cross halls near the University Bookstore.
The Saluki Food Pantry has served 205 students and family members so far this semester. With grocery prices climbing, it remains a valuable campus resource, said Emily Spann, associate director of the Student Center.
“We are extremely grateful to all of our supporters who help keep the shelves stocked,” Spann said.
Located on the lower level of the Student Center, the pantry provides free, nonperishable food to Salukis experiencing food insecurity. Each visit provides enough to feed a student and household members for about three days.
Most-needed items
While all food gifts are appreciated, organizers encourage donors to think about what college-age students typically eat and choose easy-to-prepare items. The pantry’s top needs include:
- Proteins: canned tuna, chicken or salmon; peanut butter, and beans.
- Fruit: canned fruit or fruit cups, preferably with no added sugar.
- Grains: brown or white rice, pasta and boxed-pasta meals, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal and cereal.
- Sauces and soups: spaghetti, tomato sauce and ramen noodles.
- Pantry staples: snacks, cake and cookie mixes, seasonings and condiments.
A donation shopping list and more details on giving are available on the Saluki Food Pantry donation page.
Groups that want to host their own food drive to benefit the pantry can email foodpantry@siu.edu for more information.