Nourish

TU's Virtual Food Pantry

Food insecurity cuts across all demographic statuses, enrollment levels, and geographic locations. These stressors affect student success in the long-term by impacting learning, grades, graduation time, and more. EcoHabits has partnered up with the Dean of Students' Office and The Chaplain to ensure that all Trinity students have access to the right amount of nutritious food they need to succeed in their classes.

introducing TU's pledge to nourish your body and mind

How it works

  • Students may request funds using the link here

  • A committee of staff members (Chaplain, the Case Manager, and your Financial Aid representative) will review your request. Your confidentiality will always be respected!

  • Soon after you submit your application, the University Chaplain will reach out regarding next steps.

  • If you're approved, you'll receive assistance in one of two ways: (1) you'll receive an HEB gift card if you're in town or (2) you'll receive a direct deposit to your bank account.

  • The virtual food pantry can cover short term needs, but if you need long-term assistance, please reach out to Case Manager Emma Phearse (ephearse@trinity.edu), from the Dean of Students Office.


Q&A

Who can apply?

  • Any students who thinks they may need food assistance is encouraged to complete the application. Don't be afraid or shy about asking for support. We're here for each other.

Can I request funds for anything other than groceries?

  • You may request funds for non-grocery items through the Raymond Judd Emergency Fund, which is managed by the Chaplain. For more information, please reach out to him at asernawa@trinity.edu.

Why do I have to shop at HEB? Trader Joe's is where it's at.

  • We decided to partner with HEB because it supports local farmers and has a vast selection of groceries for you to select from.

Can I request funds multiple times?

  • Yes, you may request funds as you need! As long as you are honest, please ask. If the committee suspects that you do not need all of the funds requested, the application will be rejected.

Can I submit requests when classes are not in session?

  • Requests can be processed during the academic terms as well as during winter and summer breaks.

How can I support the Nourish project?

  • Thank you so much for your desire to support this endeavor.

  • If you'd like to donate time, you could help us build a physical food pantry on campus. Contact Natalia Gonzalez (ngonzal2@trinity.edu) to check for volunteer opportunities.

  • If you'd like to donate funds, click this link. Anything helps!


SNAP Benefits for Students

Nourish is built to supplement your nutritional needs, but we can only provide short-term assistance. For additional local resources, please consider the San Antonio Food Bank.

Most students ages 18 - 49 who are enrolled in a college, university, or other institution of higher education at least half of the time are not eligible for SNAP benefits. However, students may be able to get SNAP benefits if they meet certain criteria under one of the following:

  • Receive public assistance under a Title IV-A Program of the Social Security Act;

  • Take part in a state or federally financed work-study program;

  • Work at least 20 hours a week; or

  • Are taking care of a dependent household member under the age of 6, or a member of the house over the age of 5 but under 12 and do not have adequate childcare that prevents them from attending school, working a minimum of 20 hours, or taking part in a state or federally financed work-study program.