Penn State Student Affairs received a $60,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus Program to aid student food insecurity support, the university announced.

The funds will go toward programs in Student Care and Advocacy, the Lion’s Pantry, and the Sustainable Food Systems Program to benefit students across all Penn State campuses.

“The fall 2022 Food and Housing Survey indicated that nearly 15% of University Park students are struggling with food insecurity,” Associate Director for Student Care and Advocacy Leanne Lenz said. “Access to food and other basic needs is crucial for academic success, mental and physical well-being. Programs like those funded through the PA Hunger-Free Campus grant promote equal opportunities and prepare students for future success.”

Student Care and Advocacy works to support students facing unexpected challenges, including individuals struggling with basic needs.

Grant funds will help increase SNAP and Medicaid education and accessibility. The grants will also help to expand University Park’s Basic Needs Hub to fund essentials like hats, gloves, and hygiene products.

The Sustainable Food Systems Program aims to expand fresh produce availability for students through initiatives like the Feed the People Market Stand and free Community Supported Agriculture shares.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Shapiro administration for the PA Hunger-Free Campus grant which allows us to advance our food security and basic needs initiatives in a way that increases accessibility and contributes to overall wellbeing and success of Penn State students,” Lenz said.