In the wake of economic inflation, more people find they are facing food insecurity, which is defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as “the limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods.” For college students, the rate of food insecurity is rising, with one survey demonstrating that 31% of college students experience food insecurity at least once over a 12-month period. Another report suggests that up to 59% of college students experience food insecurity at least once throughout their college education. For college students in Washington facing the high cost of urban living, food insecurity is a widespread concern, as a survey from Western Washington University comprising students from 39 Washington-based universities found that 38% of students reported experiencing food insecurity within the prior 30 days.

The consequences of food insecurity go beyond hunger. Students who are unable to meet their nutritional needs face increased short-term and long-term risks to their health. Food insecurity has been linked to chronic stress and an elevated risk of developing chronic diseases, including mental health conditions. Students experiencing food insecurity also face numerous risks to their academic success. Lowered academic performance, increased withdrawal, and co-occurring housing insecurity prevent determined students from succeeding. 

College completion itself is a strong predictor of good health outcomes for adults. A report by the United Health Foundation suggests both chronic disease and mental distress are increasing in the United States. Earning a baccalaureate degree is linked with higher income, healthier behaviors, and higher life satisfaction. These outcomes suggest that providing basic assistance to students throughout their college education could help the United States develop a happier, healthier adult population.             

Rising tuition and housing costs shoulder the blame for food insecurity among college students. Many of those enrolled in courses receive financial aid, including student loans, to supplement their full and part-time jobs. Still, this income is not enough to meet their basic needs, as financial aid has not increased to meet the cost of rising tuition. Students who are eligible for basic food benefits are often denied assistance due to budget issues, paperwork errors, or lack of clarity regarding eligibility. 

Furthermore, many students face stigma regarding food insecurity. One political opponent of food aid to college students mischaracterized students in need as individuals who “oversleep and miss breakfast” and “abstain from second servings.” Indeed, the idea that college students are “not hungry, but lazy” reinforces stigma around food insecurity. In the end, this stigma hurts food insecure college students, as these stereotypes discourage them from seeking help.

In February of this year, Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT) introduced a bill, H.R. 7416, to address food insecurity on college campuses. Under H.R. 7416, titled “Closing the College Hunger Gap Act,” students with reported incomes below $27,000 would be flagged at-risk for food insecurity, and privately given guidance on how to access food assistance in their state. The goal of this bill is to address food insecurity at the onset of a low-income student’s education, providing a stronger foundation for academic success. To advocate for this bill, consider contacting your representatives to voice your support. 

On the Seattle University campus, a by-appointment food pantry is operated by the MOSAIC Center. This resource is available to all Seattle University students with a valid student ID card. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are interested in addressing food insecurity on Seattle University’s campus are encouraged to get involved. Consider volunteering at local food pantries, donating non-perishable food, or making financial contributions to helping agencies such as the MOSAIC Center on campus. Ultimately, it is up to us to support our school community, and ensure that each student has the resources they need to reach their full potential at Seattle University.