Class
Article
College
College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences
Department
Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences Department
Faculty Mentor
Katie Kraus
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Food insecurity among students in higher education programs is a relatively new area of research with the first study being published only 14 years ago. Over the years, the costs associated with higher education have steadily increased leading to more financial burdens for students than ever before. According to the 2019-20 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, over 4 million students nationwide struggle with food insecurity.
While the incidence of food insecurity among students is increasing, many students are not taking advantage of community and university resources aimed at targeting this issue on college campuses. In a study done at the University of Florida, researchers found several barriers which include, but are not limited to, inconvenient hours, lack of information, social stigma, and self identity.
Utah State University has implemented a program to combat the presence of food insecurity among its students. The Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC) is a place where students can go once a week to receive food for free. Food is donated from various USU dining services and businesses in the area.
The purpose of this study conducted by USU’s Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science department is to assess students’ use of SNAC and satisfaction with the pantry. Data gathered from this study will be used to make improvements to the pantry in an effort to better meet student needs.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-9-2024 1:30 PM
End Date
4-9-2024 2:20 PM
Included in
SNAC Patrons' Typical Use and Overall Evaluation of Services
Logan, UT
Food insecurity among students in higher education programs is a relatively new area of research with the first study being published only 14 years ago. Over the years, the costs associated with higher education have steadily increased leading to more financial burdens for students than ever before. According to the 2019-20 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, over 4 million students nationwide struggle with food insecurity.
While the incidence of food insecurity among students is increasing, many students are not taking advantage of community and university resources aimed at targeting this issue on college campuses. In a study done at the University of Florida, researchers found several barriers which include, but are not limited to, inconvenient hours, lack of information, social stigma, and self identity.
Utah State University has implemented a program to combat the presence of food insecurity among its students. The Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC) is a place where students can go once a week to receive food for free. Food is donated from various USU dining services and businesses in the area.
The purpose of this study conducted by USU’s Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science department is to assess students’ use of SNAC and satisfaction with the pantry. Data gathered from this study will be used to make improvements to the pantry in an effort to better meet student needs.