Missouri State University is launching Bears Share, a pilot program designed to help fight food insecurity among students and reduce food waste on campus.

Bears Share will provide students with timely access to leftover food from campus meetings and events, creating an immediate benefit to students facing barriers, while also promoting sustainability.

“Working in the dean of students office, I meet many students who face challenges that make college especially difficult,” said Ellen Currie, coordinator of student care and support. “One of the first students I worked with shared they couldn’t remember the last time they had a hot meal. That really stuck with me. Eating is something many of us take for granted, but it can be a daily struggle for some students.  

“I could not be more excited about Bears Share and the way it supports our students, builds community and helps reduce food waste across campus.” 

According to a 2020 U.S. Department of Education National Postsecondary Student Aid study, 23% of undergraduate and 12% of graduate students in the United States experience food insecurity each year. The impacts extend beyond hunger, contributing to heightened stress, poorer mental health, disrupted sleep and other negative effects. 

How it works 

When a campus event ends, organizers may submit a Microsoft form that will automatically notify enrolled students.  

The notification will include the location of the food, the type of food available and the event’s end time. Students will then have 20 minutes to collect a serving, using either their own containers or ones provided by the office of the president. 

The program is being piloted with students currently signed up for the Bear Pantry, but has the potential to expand. Students interested in receiving Bears Share notifications can sign up through the Bear Pantry.