Colleges Expand Basic Needs Support Following SNAP Freeze

"The government shutdown may be nearing its end, but the delayed distribution of food assistance funds continues to pose a threat to Americans, including the basic needs security of college students. For now, the future of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funding remains cloudy amid the federal government's ongoing court battles against releasing the funds. Nearly three in five college students experience some form of basic needs insecurity, and two in five experience food insecurity, according to national surveys."

"Financial insecurity is one of the top threats to student retention and persistence in higher education, meaning a lapse in support may impede some students' ability to remain enrolled. Some colleges and universities have established new or expanded measures to plug the gap in food support for students during the shutdown, including expanding the hours of campus food pantries and promoting emergency grant funding."

"Minnesota administrators announced on Nov. 3 that students affected by the lack of SNAP funds would be able to access one free meal a day in the residential dining hall until benefits resume. The university estimates fewer than 1,000 individuals on campus are enrolled in SNAP. In addition, the on-campus food pantry, Nutritious U, will offer expanded hours for the rest of the semester, opening one hour earlier to serve more students."

Delayed distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds during the government shutdown threatens Americans' basic needs, including college students. Nearly three in five college students experience basic needs insecurity, and two in five experience food insecurity. Approximately 3.3 million college students were eligible for federal food assistance in 2020, though many do not utilize SNAP due to lack of awareness. Financial insecurity is a major threat to student retention and persistence, so interruptions in support may hinder continued enrollment. Several colleges expanded campus food pantry hours, promoted emergency grants, and provided free meals to affected students.

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