November 10, 2025

Food Security Resources

Access to nutritious food is an important part of overall well-being and we recognize that many individuals and families are facing challenges in meeting this need right now. Whether due to rising costs, unexpected life events, or other circumstances, food insecurity can affect anyone.

This page offers a collection of local resources—including food pantries in Chicago and nearby suburbs, as well as restaurants and community organizations offering free meals. Our goal is to make it easier to find support without judgment or barriers.

To view the list of food security resources, please click here.

UChicago CARES Resources

To view the original CARES website page, please click here.

Graduate and Professional Students can contact:
Student Support Services
studentsupport@uchicago.edu
773.702.2435

Undergraduate Students can contact:
Center for College Student Success
ccss@uchicago.edu
773.702.4537

Resources available during the academic year:

• Dining Meal Swipes: We can provide students with limited meal swipes during the academic year to be used across the UChicago Dining Commons. Please reach out using the contact information above to request support.

Resources available during academic breaks:

• C.A.R.E.S. Initiative: UChicago Dining provides supplemental resources to students experiencing food insecurity during academic breaks. Learn more about the Thanksgiving Break C.A.R.E.S. program.

This is intended to be short-term support for students experiencing food insecurity. If you or a student you know could benefit from longer-term support, please contact us to explore additional options.

Requests are reviewed during regular business hours (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) during the academic year. For urgent needs or after-hours requests, students may contact the various emergency resources on campus, including the Dean-on-Call program.

Additional Financial Resources
We recognize that there are situations outside of the scope of this program. The Bursar's Office has Emergency Assistance Programs to assist with additional emergencies and unexpected expenses.