The News Stand

College Program Fights Student Hunger With Food Pantries

NC Campus Engagement runs a program to help college students who don't have enough food. Since 2010, they've partnered with Food Lion grocery stores to fight hunger on college campuses across North Carolina. Their main program is the NC Collegiate Hunger Challenge, where colleges compete to raise awareness about student food insecurity and collect food donations. Schools pick student ambassadors who lead events and food drives on campus. Winners get cash prizes up to $10,000 to support their campus food pantries. The program also gives grants to help schools start or expand food pantries. Over 30 colleges have participated, including community colleges, state universities, and private schools. Students get stipends for their work, and schools receive money for activities and marketing materials. Applications open in spring for the fall challenge, and separate grants are available for schools that don't participate in the main competition. The program has helped establish food pantries and gardens on campuses to ensure students have access to nutritious food while pursuing their education.