Maverick Pantry's History
In 2022, the Kroger Co. Foundation donated $250,000 to UTA for the establishment and support of the Maverick Pantry. Through this gift, UTA has been able to provide students, faculty, and staff both perishable and nonperishable food, toiletries, school supplies, and baby items. Once the pantry was fully launched, UTA hosted a ribbon cutting event with Kroger to celebrate this collaborative success. The links below highlight some stories publicizing the gift.
Student Testimonies:
Student One
As a student managing a tight budget, being able to schedule a pickup for free groceries, hygiene items, and daily essentials made life more manageable. It’s such a simple idea, but such a powerful one — a university saying, “We care about your whole wellbeing, not just your grades.” That kind of care shapes how you see yourself and how you see the community around you.
Student Two
In my very first semester, when I faced a financial crunch, the Maverick Pantry became one of the most meaningful parts of my UTA journey. At that time, I visited the Pantry almost every month. I received daily essentials and household items there — things that truly helped me settle into my new life while managing my financial situation. I still remember the first time I walked in — I was a bit hesitant and unsure if I should even be there. But I was greeted so warmly with genuine care and no judgment. They didn’t just hand me groceries, but showed their care; they gave me comfort and reassurance that I was part of a community that truly looked after one another.