St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM) is taking strides to combat food insecurity on its campus, thanks to a $17,404 Hunger-Free Campus Grant from the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). The funding, awarded for the fiscal year 2025, aims to raise awareness about student hunger, implement sustainable solutions, and foster partnerships with community organizations to address food insecurity.
The grant will enable SMCM to enhance existing initiatives and create new programs targeting campus hunger. Leading these efforts are Caroline King, director of the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, and Derek Young, dean of students. Both will collaborate with the SMCM Hunger-Free Campus Task Force to execute projects during key events such as National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week (Nov. 17-23) and Earth Month in April 2025.
“This MHEC grant allows us to strengthen and expand our efforts to address campus hunger,” said King. “We hope the entire campus community will take part in upcoming programs meant to increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding food insecurity.”
Addressing Basic Food Needs and Beyond
The grant will support several initiatives aimed at improving food access for students. Solomon’s Shoppe, the on-campus food pantry, will see improvements to increase accessibility and inclusivity. SMCM will also work with Kate Farm, an organization focused on sustainable nutrition, to provide students with information about healthy food options.
Additionally, the task force will continue efforts to enroll students in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Transportation assistance will also be provided, enabling students to use SNAP benefits at off-campus grocery stores.
Events Promote Awareness and Engagement
As part of Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, SMCM will host events designed to engage the campus community and reduce the stigma surrounding food insecurity. Planned activities include:
- A film screening addressing issues of hunger and homelessness.
- A food donation drive to support Solomon’s Shoppe and a local community pantry.
- A service project to prepare meals for unhoused individuals in the area.
Information on these events will be shared on SMCM’s InsideSMCM platform and the Office of Community Outreach & Engagement’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Looking Toward a Sustainable Future
The grant’s focus extends beyond immediate needs, emphasizing sustainable solutions for long-term food security. King and Young plan to incorporate programming into Earth Month to highlight the intersection of environmental sustainability and food access.
These efforts align with the college’s commitment to community engagement and student well-being. By leveraging resources and partnerships, SMCM aims to create a supportive environment where all students have access to nutritious food.
Students and faculty alike are encouraged to participate in upcoming events and initiatives to help build a hunger-free campus. More details about the programs can be accessed via SMCM’s online platforms.
