Experiences of Students Utilizing a Campus Food Pantry

Food insecurity is a phenomenon with far-reaching impacts on the social, economic, health, and well-being of college students’ lives impacting how they procure food, food choices, and food experiences. A qualitative narrative inquiry explored experiences of three students facing food insecurity and using a campus food pantry. Data collection methods included in-depth semi-structured interviews, journaling, and photo elicitation. Data analysis illustrated five themes: a) financial challenge identification; b) strategizing budget priorities; c) prioritizing health; d) food pantry uses and strategies; and e) having enough. Students’ experiences were impacted by social and physical implications due to their financial challenges. The food pantry filled a void for all participants ensuring they had items which provided enough to meet needs. Next steps include developing a food security assessment tool, increasing department collaborations, and maximizing resource utilization provided by the food pantry. These implications are designed specifically for stakeholders invested in providing a campus food pantry to maximize students’ needs and success. Key Words: campus food pantry, food insecurity, higher educatio