Metro State University has received the Hunger Free Campus Designation for 2025–2026 from Minnesota State. This designation recognizes Metro State’s efforts to reduce and eliminate food insecurity among their student populations.
Approximately 23% of undergraduate students in the United States experience food insecurity annually, according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) analysis of 2020 data. At two-year colleges the rate is even higher, with 38% reporting food insecurity in a Hope Center Survey in fall 2020.
To earn the Hunger Free Campus Designation, Metro State University has demonstrated successful implementation of activities to achieve the goal of reducing and eliminating food insecurity on their campus. Specifically, Metro State has partnered with Second Harvest Heartland, Neighborhood House, and Kitchen Coalition to provide access to fresh produce, dairy products, shelf-stable items, and hygiene products to reduce food insecurity. We distributed approximately 38,000 pounds of food in the past year from the Metro State Food Pantry. Additionally, we provide support around SNAP benefits, emergency grants, and participated in a food insecurity pop-up/resources table at Spring Fest to help reduce stigma and increase access.
“Students are most successful when they can focus on learning instead of worrying about from where their next will come,” said Bobbie Anderson, vice president for success at Metro State University. “This designation reflects the dedication of our campus and community partners to creating a supportive environment where students can access the resources they need, feel a sense of belonging, and persist toward graduation. We are proud of the steps we have taken this year to expand access and ensure students know they are not alone when facing challenges.”
“At Minnesota State, supporting our students with the resources they need to succeed with their educational goals is paramount, and that includes having enough to eat,” said Shawn Anderson, system director for student development and success for Minnesota State. “This designation recognizes the commitment that Metro State University has made to ensure that no student has to choose between their education and their next meal.”
Colleges and universities within the Minnesota State system can apply each year for Hunger Free Campus funding, provided by the Minnesota legislature. Whether or not they receive funding, colleges and universities who demonstrate success in reducing and eliminating hunger on campus can be awarded the Hunger Free Campus designation on an annual basis.