Rams Against Hunger: Bridging Gaps Beyond the Pantry

Rams Against Hunger food fills a basket, Jan. 26, 2022. Produce, baked goods and feminine products are some of the items available thanks to the Larimer County Food Bank. (Collegian | Tri Duong )

By Portia Cook

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Colorado State University’s campus, the Rams Against Hunger Food Pantry serves as a beacon of hope and support for students grappling with the stark challenges of food insecurity.

Michael Buttram, Basic Needs Manager at Colorado State University’s SLICE office, envisions a future where every CSU student can engage fully in their college experience, unburdened by hunger or unmet basic needs.

As one of the key architects of the Rams Against Hunger Food Pantry, Buttram articulates a mission that extends beyond addressing immediate hunger concerns.

“We’re ensuring people have the tools necessary to access this opportunity and fully partake in their college experience,” Buttram said.

“Rather than worrying about where their next meal is coming from or stressing about housing, if somebody is going to fully participate in their college experience, they first need their basic needs met,” he added.

Buttram underscores the pantry’s commitment to community principles—social justice, inclusivity, and respect—recognizing that true community strength is forged by meeting everyone’s basic needs.

Helen Obuna, a student staff worker at the Rams Against Hunger Food Pantry, shares her perspective on the diverse community the pantry serves.

“I think it’s great that I get to see such a diverse group of students come through the doors every day. I don’t think I get enough of that in my classroom. So I do enjoy being in spaces where I get to connect with people who look like me or share some of the same identities I have,” Obuna said.

Operating as a vital resource, Rams Against Hunger takes on increased significance during the holiday and winter months, when the impact of food insecurity is keenly felt.

Collaboration during this time is the linchpin of Rams Against Hunger’s success, with the Food Bank of Larimer County as a crucial partner, contributing 95% of the pantry’s food. Buttram emphasizes the importance of repurposing surplus food and salvaging items that might otherwise go to waste.

Partnerships with local dairies, including Morning Fresh Farms, Whole Foods, and other grocery stores, further enhance the pantry’s ability to offer a variety of nutritious options.

Aligned with its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Rams Against Hunger actively welcomes donations from the community.

“We accept donations of any unopened packaged foods at any time,” Buttram said.

He also highlights their involvement in the Growing Give program, where community members can contribute surplus garden produce, fostering sustainability and reducing food waste.

Operating under the Samaritan Law in Colorado, the pantry can accept donations in good faith, supporting its mission to reduce food waste and ensure no one goes hungry.

As the winter season approaches, Rams Against Hunger is gearing up for special initiatives.

A Thanksgiving distribution on Nov. 17 will provide 150 turkeys along with other essential holiday meal items.

Simultaneously, the pantry is preparing for Giving Tuesday on Nov. 28—a crucial fundraising day aiming to raise $90,000. These funds will support programs like the Meal Swipe initiative, allowing eligible students to apply for 30–50 meal swipes usable at any CSU dining hall.

Outside of utilizing one of the eight campus pocket pantries, Buttram encourages individuals to contact Student Case Management for SNAP benefits eligibility, describing it as a powerful strategy against food insecurity.

“It’s one of the best mechanisms for fighting food insecurity,” Buttram said.

Highlighting broad eligibility, he notes that students with federally awarded work-study or a zero Expected Family Contribution (EFC) are often qualified. This includes thousands of students who could receive up to $290 in monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

Buttram is actively working to destigmatize seeking SNAP benefits, drawing parallels to federal aid programs such as Pell Grants.

“Consider it like your Pell Grant. This is part of your federal package,” he suggests, aiming to encourage students to embrace this resource without reservation. “You’re not going to say no to a Pell Grant. I’ve never heard anybody say no to a Pell Grant,” Buttram said.

Looking ahead, Rams Against Hunger plans to remain open throughout fall break, offering essential support to students, including international students who stay on campus during the holidays.

The Rams Against Hunger (RAH) Food Pantry is located in the CSU General Services Building at 1251 Mason Street and welcomes all community members, including students, staff, and faculty. When visiting, ensure you have your CSU ID card on hand and bring along bags for a seamless experience.

For detailed information about Rams Against Hunger’s additional eight pocket pantries, the Meal Swipe program, RAM Food Recovery, ongoing initiatives, or how to get involved, visit the SLICE office located on the first floor of the Lory Student Center in Room 210 or the Rams Against Hunger website.