On October 23, 2025, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced a pause in November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the government shutdown. MSU University of Health and Wellbeing is committed to supporting affected members of the campus community.
SNAP participants should reach out to their local MDHHS office with any questions regarding their SNAP benefits or check MI Bridges for updates. MDHHS has published a Frequently Asked Questions webpage about the delay in food assistance benefits.
Spartans experiencing food or basic needs insecurity are encouraged to seek free, confidential support through Michigan 2-1-1. This program connects Michigan residents to emergency food assistance and other health and human services programs.
MSU Extension has also created an educational webpage on food assistance programs and stretching food budgets.
MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program
Additionally, MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program remains open to assist eligible campus community members. While the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for SNAP benefits, participants can access free, supplemental items like produce, dairy, proteins (plant-based, meats, and seafoods), hygiene, and cleaning supplies once weekly.
To be eligible to use the MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program, Spartans must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Household income meets federal TEFAP guidelines ($46,950 annually for a household of 1; add $16,500 for each additional member)
- A member of the household participates in programs such as SNAP, WIC, SSI, CSFP, or FDPIR
- Facing food insecurity
The program serves Spartans at two locations:
- Spartan Shelf – Olin (Grocery Pick-Up Model)
- Location: Olin Health Center, Room 151
- Hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Spartan Shelf – Union (Self-Shop Market)
- Location: MSU Union, Room 25
- Hours: Tuesdays, 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. | Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Appointments are required at both locations. Spartans who are current students, faculty, staff, or scholars may use their MSU single sign-on credentials to log in and make an appointment through PantrySoft.
Please note that due to anticipated increased demand, wait times may vary.
Supporting the MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program
University Health and Wellbeing remains committed to ensuring no one goes without essential support. This commitment continues to be possible through the support of our Spartan community. Register to volunteer with the MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program or support Spartans facing basic needs insecurity through donations.