Cantú Center Services and Resources
At the Cantú, we offer a range of services and resources that support the well-being, identity, and community of LGBTQIA+ students at UCSC. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming place to study, clothing that reflects your gender expression, a snack, or books that resonate with your experience, our center is here for you.
Explore the sections below to learn more about what’s available. Unless otherwise noted, all services are available during regular Cantú Center hours.
Study space
Need a quiet spot to read, write, or power through that group project? The Cantú Center offers a cozy, low-key space for studying—with comfy couches, plenty of outlets, and a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re here solo or with friends, you’re welcome to settle in and make the space your own.
Queer & Trans library
Our library is more than just shelves of books—it’s a place to see your stories reflected and to imagine new possibilities. We’ve curated a collection of over 300 titles available for loan—fiction, nonfiction, history, biography, manga, poetry, zines, and more—all centered on queer and trans experiences. By centering these narratives, this collection underscores why a dedicated space like ours matters: it affirms identities, broadens perspectives, and offers real and imagined models for your journey. Allies, accomplices, and learners are also welcome to explore resources that deepen understanding and build solidarity.
Stop by to browse and take home something that speaks to you!
Queer and trans zines
Explore zines created by UCSC trans and nonbinary students, for trans and nonbinary students. Each one shares insight, care, and lived experience on everything from gender and health to joy and creativity.
- Cantú Testosterone Guide by Cyrus
- A Complete Guide to Transmasculine Reproduction by Vann Jones
- Safer Hotter Trans Sex Zine by Cantú interns
Clothing Closet
The Cantú Clothing Closet is designed to help you find clothes and accessories that reflect your gender expression. Swing by to browse a selection of shirts, skirts, shoes, chest binders, tucking underwear, bags, hats, and more, all at no cost. We created this space so trans, gender-nonconforming, and queer students can explore styles comfortably, without the stress of shopping in a traditional store.
Looking for binders, packers, trans tape, or other gender-affirming items? Learn more on our Gender Affirming Gear (GAG) Closet page.
Sexual and Menstrual Health Pantry (SMHP)
Take what you need—no cost, no questions asked. Our SMHP helps you prioritize your health and well-being with free supplies and info, available in two locations at the Cantú: inside the all-gender restroom and near the main entrance. We stock:
- Condoms & dental dams
- Lube
- Sterile gloves
- Tampons & pads
- COVID antigen tests
- Toothpaste & toothbrushes
- Deodorant
- Healthy hygiene and sexual health information
Indoor Food Pantry
The Cantú Food Pantry is open to all UCSC students. Our indoor pantry is self-serve, stocked with staples, snacks, and refrigerated/frozen items. We also maintain an outdoor pantry that’s accessible 24/7, including during academic breaks.
Donations are always welcome—especially Capri Suns, small chip bags, granola bars, and ramen!
Outdoor food and personal care pantry
If you need food staples or SMHP supplies after hours, swing by our outdoor library just outside the Cantú Center’s main entrance. It’s open around the clock, every day of the year.
Lectures and trainings
Cantú Center staff are available to give guest lectures and workshops on LGBTQIA+ topics in classrooms, residence halls, and other campus spaces. We’ve covered topics including navigating pronouns and inclusive language, queer allyship and accomplicehood, sexual and gender diversity in higher education, and more.To request a lecture or training: Email queer@ucsc.edu.
Events and programs
From film screenings and panel discussions to community socials, the Cantú hosts and co-organizes events year-round. Visit our Events page for upcoming workshops, mixers, and more—we can’t wait to meet you there.
Looking for trans and nonbinary support beyond the Cantú?
Check out our Campus Support and Community and Online Resources pages for health services, legal name/gender updates, peer groups, and more.