About the Food Pantry

In spring of 2018 the Diablo Valley College Food Pantry was established in the Student Union Multicultural Center through the leadership of DVC’s Associated Students in partnership with and support from college administration, Student Life Office, the Foundation Office, the English Department, and Contra Costa/Solano County Food Bank. The purpose of the food pantry is to provide emergency, supplemental food to DVC students to assist in fighting food insecurities one step at a time. Food insecurities are when an individual is unaware of where their next meal will be or having limited access to food.

During school closure the college will offer food distribution approximately every two weeks in the cafeteria. Please contact Dietra Prater-Slack for more information. 

Summer Food Distribution Scheduled in the DVC Cafeteria, please wear a face mask and practice social distancing. 

  • Wednesdays, 1-3 pm - June 17 and 24, July 8 and 22, August 5 and Tuesday, August 18

Covid-19 Emergency Grant

Are you facing unexpected expenses as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the transition to remote classes and services? If so, you may be eligible for the COVID-19 Emergency Grant! Students enrolled for summer 2020 can apply for a one-time $500 grant to help with books, supplies, housing, food, transportation, technology needs, health care, child care and other costs. Don’t let a financial emergency keep you from completing your educational goals at DVC! Funds are limited! Apply now!

The following community resources are also available:

  • All food bank programs remain open. Read the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Need Food Flyers for more information. 
  • Leila by the Bay is open to the public

  • Loaves and Fishes

    • hours are 11am - 12:45pm
    • serving at four locations throughout Contra Costa County - Oakley, Antioch, Martinez and Pittsburg.
    • They are serving a hot "TO GO "meal and a bag of groceries.  The groceries vary pending on our donations. 

  • AuntBertha - Search for free or reduced-cost services like medical care, food, job training, and more.

  • Also, students can always call 211 to get referrals to other nearby pantries as well as other services.

We know that a number of DVC students face serious financial challenges and are food insecure. Research indicates that students without proper nutrition can have trouble focusing on school work and that they often worry about where they will find their next meal. The pantry will serve as a free supplemental food resource for all students who may need it. This service is made possible by DVC Foundation donations and grants from Kaiser Permanente, Whole Foods 365, Safeway, DVC Retirees Association Board, Community Health Fund and the Chancellor's Office. 

The food pantry is currently being staffed and operated during Fall and Spring semesters. For any special needs during the non-operational timeframe, please contact the Student Life Office.

Holiday food distribution locations www.foodbankccs.org/getfood

Eligibility

Currently enrolled DVC students

Registration and Food Pickup Instructions

  1. First time pantry users: Please complete a quick and confidential Online Intake Application Form. This form is only required once per academic year and is only for funding and research purposes. After submission, please meet with pantry staff for welcoming and orientation.
    Returning users: Please complete the Online Menu Request Form.
  2. Once a form is submitted, a Student Life Staff member will review and notify applicants of approval and pick up. NOTE: Food bag will be prepared and ready for pickup during the below posted days and hours of operation at the DVC Food Pantry location (Student Union, downstairs in the Multicultural Center). Please provide your student ID card to the staff member.
  3. If you are unable to pick up your food items during the designated hours of operation, email dprater-slack@dvc.edu and we will see if someone is available to assist you or direct you to alternative emergency resources in the area.

Menu

Currently the pantry only serves non-perishable food items, and an updated menu will be available weekly. Please note that items are available on a first come first serve basis and some items may not be in stock. Individuals may select 5 items twice a week and family households may select up to 10 items twice a week.

Online Food Order Form (Not available at this time)

Food Pantry Survey - how was your experience? 

We value and encourage your input about your experience at the food pantry. Please take a moment to complete this online survey. Your feedback is invaluable and will help inform how the pantry can provide you with better resources and services. Thank you for your time.

Donations

The DVC Foundation accepts monetary donations. However, the food pantry does not currently accept food, personal hygiene and toiletry donations.  

Related links

Contact Student Life

Dietra Prater-Slack, Program Assistant

Dietra Prater-Slack
Telephone:  925-969-2355 or extension 22355
Office location: Student Union Multicultural Center campus map

Fall and Spring Hours:

 

Monday - Thursday
TBD
Closed Fridays & College Holidays