Food Insecurity as a Student Issue

Abstract

AbstractFood insecurity is a threat to student success on college campuses in the United States. It has the potential to impact academics, wellness, and behavior-all factors that have bearing on student retention and graduation rates. This article reviews the literature on food insecurity among college students, utilizing research on hunger and educational outcomes in K-12 education to demonstrate potential negative outcomes along the educational pipeline from elementary school to college. The author recommends that campus administrators determine the scope of food insecurity on their campuses, developing short- and long-term responses in partnership with nonprofits, governmental agencies, and faculty, to alleviate its negative impact on students.