Millersville, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) visited Millersville University to learn more about their new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Station for students – funded by the Shapiro Administration’s Hunger-Free Campus initiative – aiming to increase awareness about resources and benefits for students.
“Food insecurity affects college students throughout the Commonwealth, yet many students aren’t aware of the resources that are available to them,” said Deputy Secretary for Postsecondary and Higher Education Lynette Kuhn. “We are grateful for schools like Millersville University that are helping to address student basic needs in the short term while creating lasting change in their lives in the long term.”
The SNAP Station was started thanks to funding from the PA Hunger-Free Campus Initiative. It not only provides a selection of free snacks, food items, and water to students, but it also provides additional services, including: information on SNAP benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process; basic needs resources, including campus and community resources; free food distribution information, such as local food banks, pantries, and other community food assistance; and PA 211 and housing resources. Students are also encouraged to meet with the MSW Basic Needs Intern, apply for the EPPIIC Compassion Fund, and to visit the Campus Cupboard across campus for one of their free meals each week and to shop for food supplies.
“The SNAP Station fills an important gap for students who need support and help with their basic needs but don’t know where to start,” said Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs. “The primary function of the station is to provide information on SNAP Benefits, free meal opportunities and food pantries in the local area, housing assistance, and health insurance. It also provides basic food and water for students who need to eat in the moment as they are walking through the Student Memorial Center. It’s a quick stop for helpful information and resources that are available to all students in need.”
The PA Hunger Free Campus Initiative invites colleges and universities to apply for the PA Hunger-Free Campus or PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation to demonstrate their commitment to addressing basic needs and diminishing barriers for learners. Institutions that have received the designation are invited to submit an application for consideration to receive funds to address food insecurity on campus.
In addition to the new SNAP Station on Millersville’s campus, the University also actively collaborates with local community organizations. The establishment of the SNAP Station is part of the University’s commitment to alleviate student food insecurity and address basic needs, ensuring that all students have the support and access they need to be successful students and support their academic and personal growth.