UCO Tackles Food Insecurity With Broncho Bites

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Broncho Bites initiative is tackling food insecurity on campus by repurposing leftover meals from Ayers Kitchen and making them available again for students, faculty, or staff every day after 3 p.m., while also having volunteer opportunities to help package food and reduce food waste.

The Broncho Bites initiative and its impact on the UCO campus have been imperative to assisting primarily students who may not be able to afford meals daily.

Dr. Susan Woods, an associate professor in food science, and a representative for Broncho Bites said, “It is a program that addresses food insecurity on campus, we come to Ayers Kitchen to pick up food that has not been served… portion that up into individual servings and take it to the Nigh at the “Broncho Bites” Fridge and anybody on campus can come by and pick up food.” 

Now in its fourth year, Broncho Bites has become an essential resource to those who may not have the time or the means to eat in Ayers Kitchen. This offers both immediate help to individuals on campus and is also a way to give back to the UCO community. 

Volunteering is open to students and staff and are needed to assist in this repurposing effort, with the option to help with food packaging or with composting.

The Broncho Bites fridge is located in the basement of the Nigh and is available after 3 p.m. every day. Volunteer times are from 2-3 p.m. every day. To sign up, search Broncho Bites on the UCO website and fill out the registration form.