Grant Recipients

• Alaska Pacific University
• Brevard College
• Centenary College (Louisiana)
• Centenary University (New Jersey)
• Greensboro College
• Huston-Tillotson University
• Kansas Wesleyan University
• Louisburg College
• Nebraska Methodist College
• Nebraska Wesleyan University
• Paine College
• Pfeiffer University
• Simpson College
• Spartanburg Methodist College
• Southwestern College (Kansas)
• Southwestern University (Texas)
• Tennessee Wesleyan University
• West Virginia Wesleyan College
• Young Harris College

By Wendy R. Cromwell

The general boards of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries have awarded $143,350 in Campus Food and Hygiene Insecurity Grants to 19 United Methodist-related colleges and universities, supporting campus programs that help students access nutritious food, personal care items, and other essential resources needed to pursue their education.

According to an analysis by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, an estimated 23 percent of college students, or 3.8 million students, experienced food insecurity in 2020. The grants, which range between $3,750 and $10,000 per school, come at a time when colleges and universities across the country are facing growing financial pressures and even higher levels of student need.

“Food insecurity should never stand between a student and his or her future,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary of the general boards of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries. “Through these grants, we are partnering with institutions across the connection to provide tangible expressions of God’s love and care. Whether through a pantry, a meal program, or a campus resource hub, these ministries remind students that they are seen, valued, and supported as they pursue their educational goals.”

The grants are designed to strengthen campus food pantries and related services at smaller United Methodist-related institutions where resources are often limited but student needs are significant. By focusing on schools with enrollments under 1,500 students, the program helps ensure that institutions with fewer financial and operational resources can continue providing critical support to students facing food and hygiene insecurity.

Among the recipients:

• Huston-Tillotson University (Texas) will expand its Ram Night Café, providing free evening meals after campus dining services close and helping students who may have limited access to food outside regular meal hours.
• West Virginia Wesleyan College (West Virginia) will strengthen its Comfort Closet, supplying food and personal care items for students, particularly during campus breaks when dining options may be limited.
• Nebraska Methodist College (Nebraska) will enhance its food pantry, increasing access to nutritious food and hygiene products for students experiencing financial hardship.

“Our United Methodist-related colleges and universities have long understood that education is about caring for the whole person,” said Dr. Dana Lyles, executive director of Multiethnic Ministries for Global Ministries and Higher Education and Ministry. “When students have reliable access to food, hygiene products, and other necessities, they are better positioned to flourish academically, personally, and spiritually. These grants are one way we can support institutions as they care for the whole student.”

The growing need for campus-based support services underscores the importance of programs that help students remain focused on their studies and long-term goals.

Wendy R. Cromwell is the senior manager of digital engagement for Higher Education and Ministry, Global Ministries and UMCOR.