Pantry Serves More than 200 Students Daily with Free Food and Essentials

The Bulldog Market, established at Alabama A&M University in 2021, was created to address the growing need for food assistance among students. Coordinated by the Service and Learning Department and supported through funding from the AmeriCorps VISTA federal grant program, the Market provides three free items per visit to any student in need.

“At Alabama A&M University, no student should have to choose between their education and their next meal,” said Service and Learning Coordinator Monica Clarke. “Our mission is to support students facing food insecurity by providing supplemental meals and essential items to help them thrive academically and personally.”

The Bulldog Market now serves more than 200 students each day, offering not only groceries but also personal care products, school supplies, and even clothing. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 82 percent of undergraduates at Historically Black Colleges and Universities rely on federal financial aid, and nearly half have experienced food insecurity, nearly twice the national average. At AAMU, that reality is evident, and the Market has become a lifeline for students who might otherwise go without.

Students say the Market helps relieve financial stress while giving them the support they need to focus on their studies. Junior Albany Rios of Orlando, Florida, said, “As a college student, it is really difficult to afford everything. The Bulldog Market provides an easy way to obtain necessary products and food that we need daily.” Sophomore Christion Clark of Birmingham, Alabama, explained, “It gives me comfort knowing the University provides these goods for students at no cost, allowing me to focus more on my studies without worrying about the little stuff like whether I have enough toilet paper or notebook paper.” Freshman William Shelton of Atlanta, Georgia, added, “The Bulldog Market is the definition of convenience. With a multitude of options, it gives choices that most aren’t used to when it comes to free items.”

The Market is in the McCaleb and McIntosh Building, Room 103, and operates Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. On Fridays, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., it provides reserved services for students experiencing homelessness, those who have aged out of social services, and unaccompanied minors. The operation is staffed by two full-time AmeriCorps VISTA workers, a graduate assistant, and three undergraduate work-study students.

Keeping shelves stocked requires continued support, and Clarke says the Market depends heavily on donations from the community. “We are always looking for contributions that help us keep the Market full for students who rely on us,” she said. Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments are preferred, especially on Fridays, but walk-ins are welcome.

For more information about donating food, hygiene products, clothing, or school supplies, email monica.clarke@aamu.edu or call 256-372-4583. You can also donate here.