Penn State is partnering with Swipe Out Hunger for a third year to help fight food insecurity and student hunger. The campaign will run from November 12 to 20 to coincide with national Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

Throughout the week, students at every campus location can donate anywhere from $1 to $15 when paying for meals at any dining hall. All donated funds will go toward Penn State’s Student Emergency Fund, which directly supports students facing food insecurity, housing insecurity, homelessness, and unexpected emergencies at every campus.

The emergency fund also provides financial support to needy students while connecting them to resources to develop greater financial stability.

“It is impossible for students to focus on their education when they are spending time worrying about where they are going to get their next meal. We want students to know that there are resources available to support those basic needs,” Assistant Director of Student Care and Advocacy Leanne Lenz said. “This drive gives students a chance to donate a small amount but have a big impact in supporting their peers and fighting food insecurity at Penn State.”

In the spring of 2022, students raised nearly $30,000 through Swipe Out Hunger for the university’s Student Emergency Fund.

More information about resources to support students facing financial challenges and other basic needs are available through the Penn State Student Affairs website, where students in need can start completing the Basic Needs Request Form.