The biggest concern on several student’s minds is whether they will pass a test, finish all their homework before the due date, or if they will get a good grade on a paper. However, for some students their biggest concern is whether they will be able to afford to eat.
Food insecurity is a prevalent issue for college students all over the country, all over the world even. It can look like skipping one or multiple meals a day or choosing a cheaper and less nutritious option. These choices may severely affect a student’s overall physical health, mental health, and academic success.
During freshman and sophomore year, UW-Whitewater students are required to have a meal plan. However, financial limitations may lead a student to choose the cheapest option available which only allows for 1-2 meals a day. This is far from a balanced or nutritious diet.
Other resources are available on campus, such as the Warhawk Food Pantry. This is an excellent resource for students who are facing food insecurity, but there are still barriers present. The location of the pantry in Drumlin Dining Hall can be inconvenient to the students who live on the opposite side of campus. Awareness of the pantry is limited. And most unfortunately, many students may avoid going to this resource due to the stigma around using services such as a food pantry.
If UW-Whitewater wants to truly support student’s needs and aid in their academic success food insecurity on campus must be addressed. Expanding awareness and accessibility is vital to this process. Exploring a discreet delivery service may also be beneficial to supporting this cause.
No Warhawk, or college student, should ever have to choose between food and an education.