King’s Secures Grant to Combat Campus Food Insecurity: Providing Nourishment for Students in Need

King’s College has received a second $20,000 grant from the state Department of Education through the 2024-25 PA Hunger-Free Campus program. This initiative aims to tackle student food insecurity in colleges and universities.

Last year’s grant helped King’s more than double the number of visits to its food pantry, which also includes five “grab and go” stations around campus. These resources allowed the college to better promote its services and connect with local farmers and food banks for fresh produce and non-perishable items.

Despite these advancements, events like “Fresh Produce Mondays” often run out of supplies quickly, showing that many students still need help. Some students may hesitate to use these resources due to social stigma surrounding food insecurity.

Dr. Bill Bolan, director of the Shoval Center for Community Engagement and Learning, believes this new funding will reach even more students, especially those who may struggle with food access, like commuter and nontraditional students. Plans include offering gift cards to local supermarkets and dining vouchers to ensure no one goes hungry.

The college is also focusing on providing food assistance for staff members facing similar challenges. By strengthening partnerships with local food banks, King’s aims to lessen its reliance on grants over time.

The King’s Food Assistance Advisory Group, made up of faculty, staff, and students, oversees these initiatives, ensuring they meet the community’s needs.

Interestingly, recent surveys indicate that about 30% of college students nationwide face food insecurity, a concern that has grown in recent years. Addressing this issue is not just about food; it’s about supporting the well-being of students so they can focus on their education.

As these efforts continue, King’s College stands out as a model for other institutions looking to create a hunger-free campus environment. More schools are recognizing the importance of this issue, sparking a wider conversation about student health and success across the country.



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