Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to use the Mustang Market?

The Mustang Market is open to our campus community, both on campus and off campus, who are experiencing food insecurity and meet the income buildings of at or below 300% of the federal poverty level. (You probably qualify. Click the link and check)

What is food insecurity?

Food insecurity, as defined by the USDA, is a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to sufficient amounts of safe, nutritious food needed for an active and healthy life. Food insecurity, reflecting economic instability, may be long term or temporary. For some, it may occur following a specific event (e.g., loss of employment), while for others it may occur regularly (e.g., running out of money at the end of each month due to other competing expenses)

Do I need to make an appointment?

Nope. If utilizing the market during our normal operating hours, no appointment is needed. If you have an emergency situation outside of our normal operating hours, please email us at MustangMarket@smsu.edu to schedule an appointment. 

What do I need to bring with me?

1. Your student ID,
2. Know the number of adults, children, and seniors in your household,
3. If possible, plastic bags or reusable bags for shopping to keep our costs down. We suggest multiple bags to keep your cleaning supplies/toiletries separate from your food.

How much time should I expect it to take?

Most people are in and out in 10 minutes. 

What kind of food will I receive?

The Mustang Market operates on a shoppers choice model, allowing you to grab what you know you need for your household and pick foods you'll actually eat. Expect a variety of fresh produce, frozen vegetables, shelf-stable dry foods, and non-food household items such as personal care toiletries and basic cleaning supplies. 

Can I visit more than once?

Yes, the Mustang Market allows weekly visits with exceptions for emergencies. Shoppers are encouraged to follow the number of items per category as these suggestions have been calculated by household size to last for 2 weeks.

I don't qualify/can't use the Mustang Market but I'm still struggling with food insecurity. What do I do?

Contact us! Email us at MustangMarket@smsu.edu and we can get you connected to many other campus and community resources including SingleStop, the Deeann Griebel Student Success Center, United Community Action Partnership, and many more. Even if you aren't in the Marshall community and surrounding area, we will work to connect you with your local resources. 

What to Expect

Ok, I qualify for the market, I know what I need, and I'm ready to visit. What should I expect? 

1. Good vibes. The Mustang Market prides itself on dignified food access. Expect friendly staff, confidentiality, and a bias and judgement free space. 
2. Check in.  You can check in either on the MySMSUApp and fill out the required forms or you can fill out paper forms at the desk. A staff member will verify completion of your forms and then you're good to shop!
3. Shopping. Category signs are located on the walls and on the shelves indicating the number of items per category it is suggested you take based on household size. This method allows you the freedom to take what you actually will use instead of a prepacked box of items. We have an assortment of gluten free, dairy free, or soy free items and are increasing our allergen friendly items regularly. 
4. Check out. Checking out is simple. Place your bags in our scale at our weigh station and you're done. Easy peasy. 
5. Survey. Yes we know, survey's are a pain. BUT ours is short and we genuinely want your feedback. Your surveys shape the future of the Mustang Market and communicate its impact to potential donors and supporters. Scan the QR code at checkout or complete your survey on the MySMSUApp.