About the Challenge - #CougsHelpCougs

In 2024, WSU student volunteers with the Cougar Food Pantry proposed a fundraising challenge with the University of Washington centered around the Apple Cup rivalry.

This friendly challenge raises awareness, engagement, and crucial funding for both universities' food pantries and programs. It's an invitation for Cougs and community partners to come together and support students facing food insecurity across Washington state.

The challenge supports all six WSU campuses and funding will be distributed to each pantry based on campus enrollment.

Challenge Details 

Dates: Sunday, Aug 23, 2026 - Sept 6, 2026, at 11:59 pm.

The challenge focuses on participation and celebrates our community's commitment to #CougsHelpCougs in support of students.

• Every gift counts as one donation, regardless of amount.
• Gifts of all size make an impact.
• The university with the greatest number of gifts wins. 

Whether you're a Coug or a Husky, participation means we all win in the fight against food insecurity and for student success! 

Use the WSU Apple Cup Food Pantry Challenge toolkit to spread the word!

Your Impact 

• 2 out of every 5 university students in the state of Washington —more than 40%—face food insecurity. These numbers are even higher than the 2023 data that motivated students to propose the challenge.
• During the 2024 - 2025 academic year, WSU campus pantries collectively facilitated over 58,000 student visits.
• The Pullman campus pantry alone distributed an average of 25,000 lbs. of food per month.

Growing demand means campuses must limit items, weekly visits, or grocery vouchers to reach as many students as possible. With your help, we can meet the growing need for these resources across all WSU campuses.

Increase your Impact 

Spread the word! Use the WSU Apple Cup Food Pantry Challenge toolkit to challenge another Coug or bring the rivalry to the personal level by challenging a Husky in your community. The kit includes graphics, printable fliers and language examples to share the challenge on your socials and at your events.

Match your impact! Does your employer match donations? Not sure? Include your employer when you make your gift and we'll reach out to help you get it matched.

Additional Ways to Give

To learn about other ways to support WSU Cougar Food Pantries or food security programs, including donor advised funds, stock transfers, or planned gifts, are encouraged to contact Student Affairs Development and Alumni Relations by sending an email to Camille Vaughn at camille.vaughn@wsu.edu.