Cats’ Cupboard is making a real difference in the struggle against food insecurity.
Imagine waking up in the morning with a grumbling stomach, empty from skipping dinner last night. An essay is due that morning, and there is no food left in the cabinet. The only remaining option is to complete the paper while hungry. It’s safe to say the painstakingly completed essay won’t win any awards.
Nearly 40% of financially stressed K-State students struggle with food insecurity (having little to no food). Hunger and lack of proper nutrition, as well as the added stress of making ends meet, make it very difficult for them to learn. At K-State, we combat these issues with Cats’ Cupboard.
Cats’ Cupboard is a local food pantry open to all K-State students, employees and visiting scholars. Customers have access to a wide selection of perishable and non-perishable food items, hygiene products, kitchen essentials and more. There is no proof of income required.
Guests rave about how Cats’ Cupboard is improving their lives, according to a 2025 survey:
- 91% said it decreased their financial stress
- 91% said it increased their food security
- 87% said it improved their overall health and well-being
- 86% said it improved their ability to succeed at K-State
More than 200 students use the food pantry daily — a 340% increase in people served over four years. With food insecurity decreasing and the well-being of K-State students increasing, the future of K-State is a healthy, happy one!