A college degree can be the ticket to a brighter future. But a growing number of college students have difficulty accessing the nutritious foods they need to successfully pursue their diploma.
Helping students thrive
No student in our area should have to choose between putting food on the table and achieving their full potential in the classroom. By bundling food and other support services for students, we’re working to help improve academic outcomes and long-term financial stability
How we help
The food bank is partnering with five colleges- Northern Virginia Community College, Montgomery College, Prince George’s Community College, George Mason University, and the University of the District of Columbia- to support students experiencing food insecurity. Through the pilot programs, students receive grocery store gift cards, which students can then use to access the nutritious food that they need at stores that are convenient for them. Providing food for vulnerable college students allows them to better focus on their academic performance and well-being. That increases the return on the students’ investment in their education, both for themselves and for our regional economy.
It takes more than food
The Capital Area Food Bank is launching multiple Food+ programs to help find solutions for hunger by addressing its root causes. If your organization offers services to students in need or would like to help make these programs possible, please contact Amirah Dales at adales@capitalareafoodbank.org.