Alvernia receives Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus grant

$20,000 grant supports ongoing strides in combatting student food insecurity

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) awards $20,000 grant to Alvernia University as part of the 2024-2025 PA Hunger-Free Campus program.

The grant is part of the statewide PA Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, which launched in 2022. The initiative supports a coalition of colleges and universities working to alleviate student hunger, provide resources for food security, and build connections among hunger advocates. Alvernia's culture of care aligns with this mission, addressing not just food insecurity but also the overall well-being of students.

"Access to education starts with meeting basic needs. We are proud to stand with the Pennsylvania Department of Education in this essential work," said Alvernia President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "This grant enables us to continue to facilitate a culture of care on campus by providing critical resources and services to students and ultimately allowing them to focus on their academic, personal and professional success."

In Nov. 2022, Alvernia was named one of the first Hunger-Free Campusesby the Pennsylvania Department of Education, recognizing its impactful efforts to create sustainable solutions to food insecurity. Now, in 2024, it is one of 31 institutions across the Commonwealth to receive the Hunger-Free Campus grant.

"The Shapiro Administration has demonstrated its commitment to keeping students of all ages healthy and fed, and the Hunger-Free Campus grants enables postsecondary institutions to expand access to food and critical services on their campuses," saidPennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. "By sharing best practices and resources, the Hunger-Free Campus coalition is ensuring that learners across the Commonwealth are safe, supported, and cared for while they're at school."

The university's work in this area is supported by initiatives like Clare's Cupboard, a campus resource that provides free food and essential items to students in need, as well as broader efforts to address basic needs insecurities. The $20,000 grant will further enhance these programs during the grant period from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2025.

"Our Franciscan values call us to serve our community, ensuring every student can thrive inside and outside of the classroom," said Alvernia Vice President of Mission, Diversity and Inclusion Dr. Darryl C. Mace, Ph.D. "Clare's Cupboard is just one example of how we live that mission. This grant amplifies our ability to provide a compassionate response to food insecurity while fostering dignity and support for our students."