By The Keystone Newspaper State initiative aims to address student food insecurity
By Alice Frank
KU was awarded the Hunger-Free Campus Grant, a governor-endorsed Pennsylvania campus initiative aimed at combating food insecurity. The award provides $60,000 to expand access to food options, create awareness initiatives and upgrade facilities.
Photo Credit: KU News and Media Press Release
The initiative was created in 2022 by Pennsylvania First Lady Lori Shapiro and is supported by Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Spanning colleges across Pennsylvania, the Hunger-Free Campus Grant does more than address hunger and student access to basic needs. It also creates opportunities for student hunger advocates to connect and build networks, allowing for an increase in need-based grant options for students.
This initiative allows the Office of Student Involvement (OSI) to run the Bear Essentials Pantry, located in the McFarland Student Union (MSU). The pantry is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Additionally, Friend Inc., a local nonprofit agency from northeastern Berks County, partners with the university to provide services for students. The organization offers information for students who need Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and assists them with the application process.
Friend Inc. also provides a satellite food pantry adjacent to campus that is open during specific hours throughout the month. Dates and times are sent to students’ emails through Engage.
KU also offers student assistance programs that address specific areas of need. SNAP provides information and guidance for students dealing with issues that affect their personal lives and academic success.
For students facing financial hardships, the Student Financial Emergency Support and Resource Team consists of administrators and staff members who assist students experiencing financial difficulties.
Questions regarding food insecurity, SNAP and the student pantry can be addressed on their website or by contacting the Office of Student Involvement at 610-683-1383 or involvement@kutztown.edu.