Empowering Students Through Sustainable Solutions for Food Security

Increasing Demand for Assistance

Food banks on campus have seen a significant surge in demand over the past year. The MSU Student Food Bank, located within the Olin Health Center, now processes approximately 1,200 orders monthly—double the volume from October 2023. Jamie Hutchinson, Associate Director of Engagement for University Health and Wellbeing, emphasized that eligibility extends to students receiving SNAP benefits, earning below $30,000 annually, or experiencing food insecurity. Notably, this income threshold adjusts upward for those with dependents.

Hutchinson highlighted that many students use the food bank to manage other financial obligations such as rent, textbooks, and tuition fees. With escalating food prices, stretching limited resources has become increasingly challenging. Statistics reveal that nearly 45% of college students face some level of food insecurity, underscoring the magnitude of the problem. Despite these challenges, partnerships with organizations like the Greater Lansing Area Food Bank ensure consistent supply and support for the growing number of visitors.

Exploring Community Gardens as a Solution

While the food bank provides immediate relief, it cannot single-handedly resolve all food insecurity issues. Two students from the Spartan Housing Cooperatives, serving on the Green Team, advocate for the establishment of community gardens to complement existing efforts. Luca Cornille, a fifth-year Environmental Studies and Sustainability student, noted that while some co-ops already maintain gardens, they lack the infrastructure and knowledge for sustainability. Improving current garden beds and addressing weed problems could significantly enhance their effectiveness.

Cornille also pointed out that interest in community gardens extends beyond co-ops. Groups like Sustainable Spartans and the Student Sustainability Leadership Council have expressed support. Increasing awareness about food insecurity is crucial for these projects to gain traction. Jonathan Medendorp, a senior in Crop and Soil Sciences, envisions surplus produce from stable co-op gardens being donated to local communities. He believes that involving students in the entire growing process fosters a deeper connection to their food, promoting both food security and mental well-being.

Collaborative Efforts and Educational Opportunities

The Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment (RISE) program plays a pivotal role in addressing food insecurity through education and hands-on experience. Located in Bailey Hall, RISE operates the Bailey Greenhouse, which supplies produce to the MSU Food Bank and Brody Dining Hall. Jorhie Beadle, Assistant Director of RISE, explained that ultra-processed and preserved foods often dominate responses to food insecurity, leading to nutritional deficiencies. RISE collaborates with the Student Organic Farm, the 1855 Community Garden, and the Bailey Greenhouse to explore sustainable solutions.

Beadle acknowledged the logistical challenges of maintaining community gardens, especially during summer when many students leave campus. Infrastructure, including irrigation systems and fencing, requires substantial investment. Additionally, educating participants on soil maintenance and raised bed cultivation is essential. Despite these hurdles, partnerships with groups like the Garden Project, part of the Greater Lansing Area Food Bank, provide critical support. These collaborations ensure that community gardens remain viable and impactful.

Building a Sustainable Future

The Green Team is actively working to establish connections with various organizations to lay the groundwork for co-op community gardens. By raising awareness about food insecurity, they aim to garner broader support for these initiatives. Cornille emphasized the importance of visibility in driving meaningful change. While the road ahead may be challenging, the collective efforts of students, faculty, and external partners offer hope for a more secure and sustainable future for all members of the MSU community.