College can be hard enough without having to worry about food, housing, and financing at the same time. Nonetheless, one survey suggests that nearly four in 10 college students are food-insecure, while 46% experienced housing insecurity and 17% had been homeless at some point in the last year.
CSU Global, via its participation in the CSU System, is determined to take action to remediate food insecurity among students. The CSU System recently signed on to a Colorado initiative designed to eliminate hunger on college campuses.
As part of this effort, CSU Global distributed $1 million in CARES Act funding directly to eligible students who were financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, there’s more to be done in eliminating student hunger. Read on for several resources to help food-insecure students find the assistance they need.
Increased SNAP Eligibility
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, which went into effect in December of 2020, expanded SNAP eligibility to any student who’s enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education with an expected family contribution (EFC) of zero.
The bill gives additional support to students who would normally have attended a college campus, but are now forced to participate in remote learning and don’t have access to food service facilities on campus. At this time, this legislation is temporary. These new exemptions will be in place until 30 days after the COVID-19 public health emergency status has been lifted.
Finding Your Local Food Bank
Food banks are an excellent resource for food-insecure students. Feeding America’s network of food banks distributes more than 4 billion meals every year through food pantries and meal programs across the country. Some food banks or pantries can deliver to participants who have limited access to transportation.
Reach Out for Help Today
If you’re struggling to feed yourself and/or your family, resources like SNAP, WIC, and child nutrition programs are here to help. These resources can alleviate more than just physical hunger. When we’re hungry and stressed, it can affect work and school performance.
If you’re a current CSU Global student, and you’re struggling, we urge you to reach out to your Student Success Counselor. They can provide helpful guidance around challenges that might impact your progress.