By SONJA KROHN
LANSING – College students today are facing a surprising challenge: hunger. Once seen as a group with few financial worries, many now struggle with food insecurity.
A study by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education found that about 20% of undergraduates in Michigan deal with food insecurity. This number is from 2019-20, but many universities report increased demand in recent years.
“This isn’t just a moral issue; it’s an economic one,” MiLEAP emphasizes, highlighting the struggles of Michigan’s diverse student population. According to their report, a significant portion of students are first-generation learners, adult learners, or Pell grant recipients, indicating a high level of financial need.
Michelle Jacob, who manages a food pantry at Northern Michigan University, notes the growing demand: “Our visits have gone up steadily. In 2025, we had 2,436 visits, which is a 20% increase from the year before.” This marks the third consecutive year of rising numbers at the pantry.
Central Michigan University is seeing similar trends, expecting around 15,788 visits in the coming academic year. Wayne State University has also reported significant increased need this year, linking it to broader economic issues.
Fresh produce is a hot commodity, along with personal hygiene items. Michigan State University has responded to rising demand by expanding their food distribution sites and expects participation to grow with the new resources.
Jacob believes that rising living costs are a big factor. “Everything is costing more, but students’ wages haven’t kept pace,” she points out. Donations primarily support the food pantry, and she hopes this situation urges universities to recognize the need for support. “If students are hungry, they can’t succeed academically,” she says.
Several universities, including Northern Michigan, have made strides to address food insecurity. Through the Hunger-Free Campus Grant initiative, Northern Michigan received funding that enabled them to start growing fresh produce on campus. This not only helps supply the food pantry but also engages students in sustainable practices.
In January, MiLEAP launched a renewed grant program for higher education institutions, providing up to $100,000 for those addressing food insecurity. However, the future of this initiative is uncertain, with ongoing discussions about state funding.
In the legislature, Rep. Will Snyder has introduced a bill to designate certain campuses as hunger-free. This would require institutions to have food pantries and staff trained to help students access nutrition assistance programs. Although the bill hasn’t advanced quickly, Snyder remains hopeful about its potential impact.
Mia Murphy from the Michigan Association of State Universities stresses that persistent funding is critical. “One-time grants won’t create lasting solutions,” she warns, advocating for sustained operational support for universities to better serve students’ needs.
As students and institutions navigate these challenges, ongoing conversations and community initiatives may offer hope for real change in tackling food insecurity among college students.
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