Berkeley student resources
food support, without the scary tabs
A calmer starting point for CalFresh/SNAP, the UC Berkeley Basic Needs Food Pantry, and emergency food options around Berkeley.
CalFresh / SNAP
CalFresh is California's SNAP/EBT program. For eligible students, benefits load onto an EBT card that can be used at many grocery stores, markets, and some farmers markets.
- Start with the student eligibility guide if you are enrolled in school.
- Apply through BenefitsCal when you are ready.
- Gather ID, proof of income if you work, enrollment info, financial aid, and rent/expense details if available.
Student eligibility
Apply on BenefitsCal
Confirm current requirements on the official GetCalFresh and California DSS sites before applying.
UC Berkeley Food Pantry
The Basic Needs Food Pantry is designed by students to meet short-term food needs for UC Berkeley students, including undergraduate, graduate, undocumented, international, visiting scholar, student researcher, and postdoc students.
- Location: bNorth, lower level of MLK Jr. Student Union.
- Bring your Cal ID or Cal ID number.
- Students can visit up to once per week.
- Check current hours and virtual line details before going.
Food Pantry info
BNC CalFresh help
Pantry hours change each term, so check the current schedule before heading over.
Emergency food
When the campus pantry is not the right fit, nearby community options may help with groceries, hot meals, or longer-term food support.
- Food Now / Emergency Food Helpline: 510-635-3663.
- Berkeley Food Network: community pantry at 1925 9th St.
- City Team Ministries at First Presbyterian Berkeley: pantry at 2407 Dana St, two blocks from campus.
- AssistList tracks low-cost and no-cost meals and pantry events nearby.
Community food resources
EBT store map