Pack the Pantry Food Drive: Empowering Local College Students with Over 30,000 Meals!

Boost for Community College Food Pantries

Food pantries at community colleges in San Diego are receiving a welcome boost just in time for the holidays. The recent Pack the Pantry virtual food drive raised over $16,800 in October, which translates to more than 33,000 meals for students battling food insecurity.

This annual drive is a collaboration between California Coast Credit Union, the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, and local colleges. Recent studies show nearly half of students at these colleges struggle to access consistent food. As the holidays draw near, the need at these pantries grows.

Dr. Mark Sanchez, President of Southwestern Community College, expressed the importance of this community support. He noted, “When we come together, we uplift our students. This initiative ensures students know they are not alone.”

Kyra Seay from California Coast Credit Union highlighted the pressing nature of this issue, especially with rising education costs and looming cuts to federal food aid. “It’s crucial to support our students now more than ever,” she said.

Casey Castillo, CEO of the San Diego Food Bank, mentioned, “Food insecurity is a major barrier to student success. No one should have to choose between buying books and food.” He emphasized that thanks to community generosity, thousands of students will have access to nutritious meals.

The San Diego Food Bank is responsible for distributing food to campus pantries, ensuring students remain nourished throughout the holiday season. In fiscal year 2025, the Food Bank provided over 52 million pounds of food to those in need, a testament to its integral role in addressing hunger in the community.

As we witness increasing food insecurity among college students, it’s clear that initiatives like Pack the Pantry are more than just temporary fixes—they are lifelines. Studies suggest that students’ well-being directly affects their academic performance, making these efforts critical for their success and future.

For more information on how to support local food banks, check out the San Diego Food Bank.

Additional Insights

Recent statistics show that food insecurity among college students has risen sharply in the past decade, highlighting the growing need for community support systems. Social media trends have also increasingly focused on these issues, with many users sharing their own struggles and encouraging advocacy for better food access on campuses.

In conclusion, as local communities rally together during these challenging times, initiatives like Pack the Pantry are crucial in ensuring students have access to the resources they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

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