Tarleton’s Purple Pantry provides a helping hand

BY CAROLINE CCRAIN /  Multimedia Journalist

At Tarleton State University, the Purple Pantry is a discreet service dedicated to addressing pressing basic needs issues. 

A 2020 study conducted on multiple college campuses in Texas found that approximately 35% of respondents were food insecure. 

“The only thing college students should have to worry about missing is class, not where their next meal comes from,” the Purple Pantry website says.

The Purple Pantry provides a variety of food options, hygiene products, household items and academic supplies to students in need. It is located in the Barry B. Thompson Student Center and is operational Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m..

Freshman Didier Alonzo has never been to the pantry, but he sees the impact that it makes on campus.

“I believe it’s a great resource to help anyone in need,” Alonzo said. “It provides many essential items that one would need.”

According to the Tarleton Student Resources and Basic Needs, 7,809 Purple Pantry visits were made by students in the fall of 2023, almost exactly doubling the 3,904 visits made in the fall of 2022.

Isabel Talamantes is the Case Manager of Student Resources & Basic Needs and Purple Pantry.

“Ultimately, this growth presents an opportunity to strengthen our campus community and ensure that every student feels supported and has an engaged and successful student experience,” Talamantes said.

One of the core values of the Purple Pantry is its commitment to discretion. Pantry entry is limited to card swipe, which can be gained by filling out an access form.

“To ensure that students feel comfortable accessing the food pantry without stigma, it’s important to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment,” Talamantes said. “We are achieving this by promoting the pantry as a supportive resource available to everyone, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.” 

Donations are welcomed at the Purple Pantry, but staff request that they are contacted beforehand as shelf space is limited. Donations are accepted in the Thompson Student Center Texan Card Office (212) or directly in the Purple Pantry. Monetary donations are also accepted.

“The Purple Pantry meets students' needs with the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers,” the pantry’s fall 2022 impact report said.

The Purple Pantry has been in operation since 2015, and is also available at the Fort Worth campus. Basic needs assistance is offered at Waco, Texas A&M-RELLIS and global locations. Visit Purple Pantry - Tarleton State University to learn more. 

“I believe that the Purple Pantry can make a profound difference in students' lives by addressing basic needs and reducing food insecurity,” Talamantes said. “Having a resource on campus such as The Purple Pantry is important so that all students feel that they have the opportunity to thrive.”

Get access to the Stephenville Purple Pantry: SRBN Purple Pantry Request Access Form - Stephenville Campus (maxient.com)

Make a monetary donation: Student Programming and Needs | Tarleton Pantries

Drop off donation items: Purple Pantry Drop off Request Form (tarleton.edu) 

Purple Pantry Amazon wishlist: Amazon.com 

Contact the Purple Pantry:  call 254-968-9081 or email [email protected].