The PA Hunger-Free Campus Initiative is awarding grants to thirty different colleges throughout Pennsylvania with the goal of combating food insecurity on school campuses, writes Evan Castillo for BestColleges.  

The Hunger-Free Campus Initiative was created in 2022, with its mission being to create a coalition of colleges focused on fighting food insecurity, to create connections with students and their advocates, to provide resources for campuses, and to offer grant opportunities for campuses.

According to BestColleges’ findings, students who are food insecure have lower GPAs and are less likely to earn a bachelor’s degree compared to students who are food secure. 

“Students of all ages learn best when they start the day with a full stomach and are better prepared to succeed when they have access to nutritious, healthy food,” Gov. Josh Shapiro said. “These grants will help colleges and universities across Pennsylvania improve and introduce programs to fight hunger and ensure students from every background have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed in Pennsylvania.” 

West Chester University received a $60,000 grant. The university will use the funds to support the WCU Resource Pantry, available to undergraduate and graduate students. The pantry provides various student services, including food, toiletries, school supplies, and more. 

Read more about the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative at West Chester University and other schools at BestColleges.

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