Addressing Food Insecurity on College Campuses
In a bold move to tackle the pressing issue of food insecurity among students, Chartwells Higher Education has announced the launch of its new initiative, United Through Food. This nationwide program aims to create a supportive network for college students facing challenges in accessing nutritious food while simultaneously focusing on reducing food waste.
The Importance of Food Security in Higher Education
Food insecurity is a growing concern on college campuses across the United States. According to the 2026 Campus Dining Index (CDI), a staggering 56% of students report difficulties in securing adequate food, a troubling trend that has been steadily increasing. This reality not only affects students’ physical health but also their academic performance and overall well-being.
In response to these alarming statistics, Chartwells is committed to being part of the solution. As Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education states, “Supporting efforts that address food insecurity is not just a goal for us; it is a responsibility.” This initiative is a clear demonstration of their commitment to serve vulnerable populations on campuses nationwide.
Structured Around Three Primary Pillars
The United Through Food initiative is strategically designed around three main pillars, each aimed at fostering food access and environmental sustainability:
- Reduce Food Waste: Implementing campaigns to raise awareness about food waste, including projects like Weigh the Waste and special events for Stop Food Waste Day.
- Back to Campus Food Drives: Organizing food drives, such as the Stock the Pantry series, to ensure students have access to food as they return to campus.
- National Day of Awareness: Coordinating a nationwide day of action across over 320 campuses to highlight the issue of student food insecurity.
These initiatives not only seek to provide immediate relief but also aim to educate and engage students in sustainable practices, creating a culture of awareness around food waste and nutrition.
Engaging Students Through Innovative Campaigns
One of the most exciting aspects of the United Through Food initiative is its innovative approach to engaging students. Campuses will see various activations throughout the academic year, including:
- Trash Talkers: Student ambassadors dedicated to promoting mindful eating habits and sharing statistics about food waste.
- Taste for Change: Sampling events designed to reduce plate waste and encourage students to explore new food options.
- Trivia Games and Collaborations: Opportunities for student groups and community partners to get involved, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
These programs not only aim to alleviate food insecurity but also create a campus culture that values sustainability and community support.
Chartwells’ Commitment to Sustainability
Chartwells Higher Education is not just focused on immediate food relief. The initiative is also committed to sustainability, aligning with broader environmental goals. By reducing food waste, Chartwells helps lower the campus carbon footprint while instilling a sense of responsibility among students.
As part of the United Through Food initiative, Chartwells will also track the progress of their Weigh the Waste campaigns to create targeted messaging around food waste, particularly leading up to Stop Food Waste Day, celebrated on April 29 each year.
A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
The United Through Food initiative by Chartwells Higher Education is a significant step toward addressing food insecurity among college students while promoting sustainability. By engaging students in meaningful ways, this initiative not only alleviates immediate challenges but also fosters a long-term culture of responsibility and community support.
We encourage other food service providers and college administrations to consider similar initiatives and join in the efforts to ensure that all students have access to the food they need to succeed. Together, we can build a future where no student goes hungry.
For more insights into how food service management can make a difference, check out our articles on innovations in campus dining and sustainable practices in food service.
What are your thoughts on addressing food insecurity in colleges? Share your insights in the comments below.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry.
