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Centenary University’s Commitment to Combating Food Insecurity
In a proactive move to address food insecurity among students, Centenary University has recently been awarded a $27,500 grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE). This funding is part of a broader initiative, with a total of $1.2 million allocated to 36 colleges statewide under the Hunger-Free Campus Act, which aims to bolster campus resources including food pantries and support services linking students to programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Understanding Food Insecurity on College Campuses
“Too often, the serious problem of food insecurity on college campuses goes unseen,” reflects Kerry Mullins, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Administration at Centenary University. Many students are not just wrestling with academic pressures; they may face housing instability, which can further complicate their ability to access sufficient nutrition. According to national surveys, nearly one-third of college students encounter food insecurity at some point during their education. Centenary aims to change that narrative through dedicated support systems.
Innovative Solutions and Programs to Support Students
The grant will fund initiatives led by the university’s Hunger Free Task Force, targeting not only immediate food assistance but also broader social support. The funding will allow the hiring of a resource coordinator/case manager whose role will emphasize guiding students through available resources. This includes access to the Cyclone Kitchen, operating 24/7, and initiatives like the Swipe Out Hunger Program, which offers confidential meal swipes for students who need them.
Transportation as a Barrier to Food Access
An exciting addition from this grant is a free courtesy bus, which will transport students to area retailers participating in SNAP. For many students at Centenary, having reliable transportation can be a significant hurdle. The bus service ensures they can access resources outside the campus, including major stores like Target and Walmart during both the academic year and breaks.
The Broader Implications for Community Resilience
By responding to food insecurity with comprehensive measures, Centenary University is not just supporting its students but also strengthening the surrounding community. When students are cared for—when their basic needs are met—it empowers them to achieve academic success, which in turn fosters a thriving community. Local municipalities such as Sussex County, Andover Borough, and Vernon Township are ensuring that institutions like Centenary receive the support necessary to build healthy, engaged populations.
Final Thoughts: A Model for Other Institutions
Centenary University's efforts to combat food insecurity reflect a growing recognition of the challenges students face. As other universities look at similar programs and partnerships with local organizations, they can learn from Centenary’s approach, realizing that comprehensive support goes beyond academics—it's about fostering an environment where every student can succeed and thrive.
Join us in celebrating the efforts and initiatives at Centenary University. Understanding food insecurity is not just vital for one university's success; it’s a collective endeavor that impacts us all. Let’s advocate for solutions in our community to ensure every student has the resources they need to succeed!
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