New Study Reveals Food Insecurity Crisis on College Campuses: Students 42% Less Likely to Graduate

A groundbreaking study from The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice has revealed a critical issue affecting students nationwide: college students experiencing food insecurity are 42% less likely to graduate compared to their food-secure peers.

The study highlights the widespread impact of food insecurity, with 30% of students at four-year institutions and 40% at two-year colleges reporting that they struggle to access enough nutritious food. This issue is forcing many students to make impossible choices between buying food or paying for textbooks, tuition, and other educational expenses. The report also found that 37% of food-insecure students had to delay or forego purchasing essential course materials, severely hindering their academic performance.

Key Findings from the Study:

• Food-insecure students are 42% less likely to graduate than those with reliable access to food.

• 30% of students at four-year institutions and 40% at two-year colleges are food insecure.

• Food insecurity is linked to a rise in mental health challenges: students experiencing food insecurity are more likely to report symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.

• 37% of food-insecure students delay purchasing textbooks and academic materials.

A Nationwide Crisis

As food insecurity spreads across U.S. campuses, this issue has become a major factor influencing academic success and long-term economic mobility. The study's findings make it clear that food insecurity is not just about hunger—it creates a ripple effect, impacting students' mental health, academic progress, and career outcomes. Low-income and first-generation college students are particularly vulnerable, facing added challenges that make graduation increasingly difficult.

The Heritage Foundation USA Responds to the Growing Crisis

In response to this alarming crisis, The Heritage Foundation USA, a non-profit dedicated to fighting food insecurity, is expanding efforts to support students across the nation. By providing meal programs, food pantries, and financial assistance, we aim to remove barriers to success for students struggling to meet their basic needs.

We believe that no student should have to choose between their education and their next meal. This study reinforces what we’ve been working to address: food insecurity is an urgent crisis, and we need to act now to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Take Action Today

We urge the public to join us in this critical fight. With your help, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of students struggling with food insecurity. Every donation helps provide meals, support, and hope to students in need, giving them the chance to stay focused on their education and future.

The Heritage Foundation USA is a leading non-profit organization committed to ending food insecurity across the United States. Our programs provide access to nutritious meals for underserved communities, with a particular focus on students, families, and individuals in crisis.