“Statewide Crisis: Local College Students Battling Food Insecurity – What You Need to Know” | Cascadia Daily News

Western Washington University’s main food pantry is often empty. Students quickly grab supplies, leaving the pantry bare within hours. “There’s never enough food,” said Gina Ebbeling, the university’s basic needs resource navigator. “Students really depend on this.”

Unfortunately, many students at Western face tough times. In fall 2024, 54.4% reported struggles with food or housing. This is a rise of about five percent compared to the previous year, according to a new report from the Washington Student Achievement Council.

This issue isn’t limited to Western. Northwest Indian College reported alarming numbers, with nearly 90% of its students facing food or housing insecurity. Over 27% experienced homelessness. Similar challenges are seen across colleges in the state, reflecting a growing need.

“We need to do more to help our students meet their basic needs,” said Michael Sledge, Western’s executive director of student life. He pointed out that financial aid hasn’t kept up with living costs in the area. Many students are forced to cut back on food to afford housing.

Students can access support through Western’s Basic Needs Hub. The university recently connected students with benefits from the Department of Social and Health Services. A DSHS van on campus successfully enrolled 33 students in November, and more outreach efforts are planned.

The food pantry relies on donations and business partnerships. Recently, it received between $4,000 and $5,000 in donations but typically gets less. Many generous people donate food, while the pantry spends about $1,000 each week on additional food supplies.

Good news is on the way. In the fall, a student fee of $4.50 per quarter, approved by the Associated Students, will provide a stable funding source for the pantry. This will help ensure that students have better access to food and essentials.

Northwest Indian College also seeks better support. Because of its first-year participation in the survey, the college has valuable data to advocate for state funding aimed at helping homeless students. With this funding, they hope to connect students from the Lummi Nation’s Youth Academy to educational opportunities.

Northwest Indian College students have found support in the community. One student shared how the college helped her find housing when she was about to become homeless. “Within three days, I had a place to live with my children,” she told a committee advocating for more funding.

In sum, food insecurity is a growing challenge in many colleges. Efforts are underway to provide students with the resources they need to succeed.

Charlotte Alden is a reporter for Cascadia Daily News. You can reach her at charlottealden@cascadiadaily.com.