The purpose of this study is to explore the extent and underlying causes of food insecurity among undergraduates. It focuses on how inadequate access to nutritious food impacts students’ academic performance and well-being, while also identifying those most at-risk. The USDA’s Short Food Security Survey will serve as the primary tool to assess food access. It will also include questions about demographics and how campuses can reduce hunger. Research indicates food insecurity is widespread in higher education, with nearly 25% of undergraduates experiencing limited food access within the past month. Students at community colleges, private for-profit institutions, and minority-serving schools report exceptionally high rates. Groups most affected include: African Americans, Pacific Islanders, women, and Pell Grant recipients. Food insecurity has been linked to poor concentration and energy levels, lower grades, mental health issues, and higher dropout rates. Historical accounts demonstrate this issue is not new. As the cost of living, tuition, and student debt rises, students are often forced to choose between basic needs. West Virginia’s Hunger-Free Campus Act shows promise by aiming to increase access to nutritious food and support systems. By gaining a deeper understanding of the problem, institutions can develop more effective solutions to address campus hunger.
