THE DISH SPRING 2023
MEET CHASE Declining resources for students, inflation, and limited part-time job opportunities are all contributing factors to the rising issue of hunger on college campuses. Chase, a college student in Omaha—can attest to these hardships. “I was using COVID-19 grants to pay for tuition, but I still couldn’t afford books, everyday necessities and groceries.” After his first quarter in college, Chase received assistance through The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP
is the largest anti-hunger program in the country, helping thousands of Nebraskans and Iowans afford high quality food. While temporary SNAP benefits helped Chase fill a critical gap—he quickly realized he needed more support. “Part of the reason I’m in this position is because of how high everything is. Simple items like chips are close to $6. If you want to watch a movie with friends, even bringing snacks is expensive.”
Partners for additional help. He encourages others not to feel ashamed about needing assistance. “None of us are perfect. And sometimes we need to ask for help, and that can be a very healthy thing to do.”
Chase recently visited one of the Food Bank’s Network Pantry
THREE REASONS COLLEGE STUDENTS ARE STRUGGLING TO AFFORD FOOD 1. Rising tuition costs. Adjusted for inflation, the cost of college increased by more than 25% in the last 10 years. 2. College meal plans are expensive. The average meal plan costs about $4,500 per year for a three-meal-a-day plan. Many colleges require students to have a meal plan if they live on campus. 3. The “traditional” college student is changing. Students are delaying college. 1 in 5 students is caring for a child and many are single parents.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD ON SNAP LEGISLATION We need your help ensuring Nebraskans and Iowans can easily apply for and access SNAP benefits. At both the federal and state levels, there are legislative bills addressing SNAPrelated issues. Scan the QR code below or visit FoodBankHeartland.org/Advocacy for more information on the bills and resources on how you can get involved. Together—we can create a healthier Heartland—one voice a time.
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Food Bank for the Heartland is committed to ensuring that our neighbors in need—including college students—have consistent access to healthy food. The Food Bank partners with Metro Community College in Omaha, and looks forward to working with additional colleges in the future to help alleviate food insecurity among college students across our two-state service area.
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