CMU Pantry

Who Can Visit?

The CMU Pantry is open to all Carnegie Mellon University undergraduate and graduate students at no cost. You don't need to show financial need — the pantry is need-blind. Students with dependents, including spouses, partners, and children, are also welcome. Staff and faculty are not eligible.

To shop, you'll need to complete the Pantry Registration and Shopping Form through PantrySoft before your visit. The form is completed every visit and lets you schedule your appointment time. Walk-ins are also accepted on most open days, though not on Wednesdays or Thursdays (this restriction does not apply during the summer). Walk-in visitors will be asked to complete the registration form at the pantry.

If you're in a food emergency and can't wait for an appointment, email cmu-pantry@andrew.cmu.edu for immediate help.

How to Register?

1. Complete the Pantry Registration and Shopping Form on PantrySoft. The app supports multiple languages. This form must be completed each visit.
2. After submitting, you'll be taken to the appointment scheduler. Pick a day and time that works for you. You'll receive an email confirmation and a reminder the day before.
3. If you need to reschedule or cancel, use the links in your confirmation email.

Items Needed for Registration

Bring your CMU ID card every visit. You'll need it to enter Residence on Fifth at the front desk. It's also a good idea to bring several reusable bags to carry your items home, since Pittsburgh has a plastic bag ban.

How Often You Can Visit?

You can shop at the CMU Pantry once per week, based on individual need.

Good to Know

The pantry is designed as a supplementary food resource, so shoppers are asked not to use it to stock up large supplies at home. If you find you need more than the pantry can provide, reach out to staff at cmu-pantry@andrew.cmu.edu to connect with other local food resources. If you can't make it to the pantry yourself, you can authorize a friend, partner, or roommate to shop on your behalf through the appointment scheduler.

Food & Essentials

The pantry carries fresh fruits and vegetables based on seasonal availability. The freezer section includes frozen meats, fruits, and vegetables, as well as frozen ready-to-eat meals (subject to availability). The shelves are consistently stocked with non-perishable staples like pasta, rice, and peanut butter, plus canned goods including beans, meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups.

For students with families, the pantry also stocks personal care items such as toothpaste, soap, and deodorant, as well as cleaning supplies. Baby care items are available on request, including infant formula, jars of baby food, diapers, baby wipes, and diaper rash cream. Since brands and sizes can vary, it helps to email the pantry in advance if you have specific needs.

How to Pick Up

The CMU Pantry is a self-select pantry, meaning you walk through and choose the items you want. After registering and scheduling your appointment on PantrySoft, head to Residence on Fifth (4700 Fifth Avenue, first floor). When you enter the building, turn left and walk to the dining room located just outside the pantry entrance. Be on time for your appointment, since arriving late may mean waiting for space before you can shop.

Additional Support

CMU students can also apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, which can help cover grocery costs. For eligibility information and the online application, visit the SNAP for College Students page or apply through the COMPASS portal. Just Harvest can help with SNAP applications and other social services.

Ways to Give

The CMU Pantry welcomes donations from the campus community and beyond. Non-perishable food items, hygiene products, school supplies, and useful kitchen items (like can openers or crock pots) are all appreciated. Contact cmu-pantry@andrew.cmu.edu to check what's currently needed or to arrange a drop-off. You can also make a monetary donation through CMU's Giving page.

How to Join the Team?

Students who want to volunteer can fill out the CMU Pantry Volunteer Interest Form. After you submit the form, the pantry team will follow up to discuss training dates, shift options, and how you can support the campus community.