Behind the Scenes at the MSU Student Food Bank

This experience involves a tour of the facility, an opportunity to learn about how students access the food bank, the various ways the food bank secures resources, and volunteer options for community members. The Mid-Michigan Spartans will provide a light meal for participants to enjoy as we write notes to students served by the food bank encouraging them to engage with local alumni and alumni in their future cities. Attendees interested in bringing donated items to the event are encouraged to bring toilet paper, paper towels and other personal need items.

About the MSU Student Food Bank:

Located in Olin Health Center, the MSU Student Food Bank was established in 1993 and was the first campus-based food bank in the country for students by students. Supporting over 4,000 individuals annually, it provides food and related items to students facing food insecurity.

Food Insecurity Among College Students:

• Approximately 30-40% of college students nationwide experience food insecurity
• Food insecurity is more common among first-generation students, students of color, and those from low income families. The MSU Student Food Bank sees a lot of international graduate students and students with families
• Food-insecure students are more likely to have lower GPA's and higher dropout rates
• Many food-insecure students work part-time or full-time jobs to afford basic necessities, which can negatively impact their academic performance
• Food insecurity is linked to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among college students
• Students experiencing food insecurity often report that financial aid packages do not sufficiently cover living expenses, leading to a reliance on food pantries and other resources

Registration Information:

• This is a free event
• Space is limited and this event is expected to fill quickly. A waitlist will be used to fill spaces as they become available from cancellations.
• Parking and arrival instructions will arrive with the reminder email attendees receive the week prior to the event

Host or Publisher Mid-Michigan Spartans