A 2019 survey conducted by the Hope Center at Temple University in Philadelphia found that nearly half of all college students experienced food insecurity over the 30 days prior to taking the survey. Food insecurity is defined as not having enough money to adequately address hunger or proper nutrition.
Bowie State University, the historically Black educational institution in Maryland, has opened a new food pantry to benefit students with food insecurity. The food pantry was opened in collaboration with Food Lion Supermarkets and the Capital Area Food Bank.
The university stated that it “is committed to providing students with wraparound support to empower them to reach their full potential through academic success and personal well-being.” The innovative Nutrition Lounge provides a place for students to gather between classes for healthy snacks and tips on healthy eating. The food pantry also offers toiletries, cleaning supplies. and hygiene items.
