Abstract
According to Feeding America (2025), more than 47 million people in the United States experience food insecurity, defined by the USDA as the lack of access to healthy, nutritious food. College students are particularly vulnerable, with studies estimating that between 12% and 70% face mild to severe hunger during their college years. Those at highest risk include first-generation students, minorities, upperclassmen, and graduate students, who often navigate these challenges alone. The effects of food insecurity on college students can lead to lasting physical and mental health consequences, as well as social stigma, isolation, and shame. Educational impacts may include reduced concentration, lower grades, and the difficult choice between attending classes and working to afford essentials. This situation can often result in students dropping out, burdened with student loans that still need to be repaid. This paper focuses on how one faith-based institution addresses food insecurity through a client-choice pantry open exclusively to students and staff. It discusses the pantry’s operations within a changing financial and support landscape, and will emphasize partnerships with community organizations and networks, particularly through food rescue programs. Every year, stores, farms, and other entities must throw away surplus food; eligible items marked as safe to eat are donated to local pantries and food banks through food rescue programs, thus reducing food waste. The study includes recommendations on how other university or community pantries can partner with local networks to support food rescue and reduce food waste, while addressing food insecurity in their community.
Presenters
Laura RacovitaProfessor of Social Work/ Dean, Social Work, Southern Adventist University, Tennessee, United States Mioara Diaconu
Professor, Associate Director of Academic Affairs and Strategic Planning, School of Social Work, Western Michigan University, Michigan, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
College Students, Food Waste, Food Insecurity, Community Networks
