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Hi, UM Griz Parents and Families! This week, we’re highlighting Kat Cowley, the Program Manager of the Associated Students of the University of Montana (ASUM) Bear Necessities agency, which provides direct support to students in the form of case management and food distribution through the UM Food Pantry. Kat and their team also advocate for additional programming to better support students experiencing basic needs insecurity.  

Q: How can students access ASUM Bear Necessities resources?  

A: The Bear Necessities walk-in food pantry is located on the first floor of the University Center in room 118. In addition to the walk-in food pantry, ASUM Bear Necessities has five grab-and go locations in Eck Hall, TRIO Student Support Services, American Indian Student Services, Alexander Blewett Law School, and Missoula College. Students living through or on the edge of basic needs insecurity can meet with Bear Necessities staff members by attending walk-in hours or by scheduling an appointment online or over the phone. There are no eligibility requirements to access these resources; they are free to all students. Poverty can feel like a full-time job, and Bear Necessities is here to help students find ways to meet their needs while protecting their time so they can focus on academic success.  

Q: How can students and families get involved?  

A: There are many ways that students and families can get involved in supporting Bear Necessities. Kat and her team run food drives all year long that students and families can volunteer at or donate to, like the upcoming tradition Can the Cats! Kat has also set up an Amazon wish list that families can access to send needed supplies to the pantry. Additionally, the pantry is always looking for volunteers to help stock shelves and unload and package food. Any time or resources given to the pantry are greatly appreciated and deeply impact students.