MARQUETTE – College students today face a tough reality. While many people think of them as carefree and financially stable, a growing number struggle with food insecurity. A report from the Department of Lifelong Education reveals that nearly 20% of undergraduates in Michigan grapple with hunger issues. This statistic comes from a study conducted between 2019 and 2020, and many colleges have noted rising needs since then.
According to MiLEAP, a state initiative, solving food insecurity among students isn’t just ethical; it’s also essential for the economy. The stereotype of the carefree college student overlooks the diverse backgrounds of today’s learners. Around 36% of Michigan college students are first-generation students, while 30% are adult learners. Many rely on Pell grants, indicating high financial need.
Michelle Jacob, who helps manage Northern Michigan University’s food pantry, has seen demand soar. In 2025, the pantry logged over 2,400 visits—a 20% jump from the previous year. This marks three consecutive years of increasing usage. “Our numbers have been increasing steadily,” Jacob said, highlighting the urgent need for support.
Central Michigan University and Wayne State University are experiencing similar trends. Central Michigan anticipates nearly 15,800 visits this academic year alone, while Wayne State’s Dean of Students, David Strauss, noted that the national economic climate has forced them to regularly replenish pantry shelves. Basic items, including hygiene products, have also seen higher demand.
Rising costs play a significant role in this growing trend. Jacob believes that living expenses, from groceries to transportation, are climbing without a corresponding increase in student wages. “They can’t succeed in the classroom if they are starving,” she stressed, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues for academic success.
In response to the ongoing demand, Northern Michigan University opened greenhouses through grant funding, allowing them to grow food locally for their pantry. In recent years, state efforts have attempted to tackle this issue by providing financial assistance to colleges to improve food security.
However, state funding remains uncertain. The governor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 omitted specific funding for food security programs. A bill designed to create “hunger-free campuses” has been introduced but hasn’t made significant progress in the legislature. Despite these setbacks, advocates remain hopeful for improved support, seeing it as a vital investment in the state’s future workforce.
As universities brainstorm ways to support students financially and nutritionally, experts like Mia Murphy from the Michigan Association of State Universities suggest a holistic approach. “Instead of just one-time funding, universities need ongoing operational support,” she stated. Long-term funding could enable schools to create sustainable solutions to combat food insecurity and ensure every student has access to the resources they need for success.
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Regional News,More Michigan college students face food insecurity
