On October 6th, 2022, Capital Food Bank and the Consortium ofUniversities of the Washington Metropolitan Area hosted the first 2022 Regional College Hunger Conference which NPCF staff member, Renard Carlos, attended.  The focus provided information on the unique challenges that college students in Metropolitan areas face regarding food insecurity.

Colleges and universities have seen a rise in students experiencing food insecurity. In addition to college students, universities and colleges have also seen an increase in employees experiencing food insecurity. The lack of food security often negatively affects student’s academic pursuits and many students struggle with burnout from working multiple jobs to pay for rent and the rising cost of food.

Students also shared it was not uncommon for them only to eat once a day. Many students who identify as food insecure also struggle to find affordable housing, creating an environment where they must choose to pay for rent or feed themselves. Food insecurity can be further exacerbated in non-traditional students returning to academia who may have families they must also provide for and feed.