Hunger and homelessness among college students are often overlooked or downplayed, but they’re very real issues affecting thousands of students across the country. From my perspective, it’s crucial that more people, especially policymakers and educational institutions, recognize how widespread these problems are.
Did you know that nearly half of all college students experience food insecurity at some point during their academic journey? Many of these students are working part-time jobs, taking out loans, and still struggling to put food on the table. The stigma surrounding hunger often prevents students from seeking help, so outreach efforts like Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week are essential.
It’s not just about raising awareness—it’s about changing the narrative. Students shouldn’t have to choose between buying textbooks and buying groceries. Programs like CalFresh and organizations like the Student Basic Needs Coalition (SBNC) are stepping up to fill the gap, but more can be done to ensure every student has access to the resources they need.
As we prepare for Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, I hope to see more people get involved—whether through donating, volunteering, or simply educating themselves on the issue. Together, we can create a campus community where no student has to go hungry or face the uncertainty of homelessness.
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