Pivoting During COVID-19: Campus Pantries’ Innovations and Community Partnerships

This case study research of University of California (UC) food pantries found that pantries rapidly adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to accommodate food-insecure students. Pantry administrators used sensemaking to understand and make decisions during the pandemic. They developed innovative food distribution models, collaborated with on- and off-campus partners, and emphasized flexible and creative management to address challenges. These strategies may also benefit student affairs and social service organizations faced with daily challenges and unplanned crises.