Rider University Gets Grant To Fight Food Insecurity On Campus

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ – Rider University recently received a grant of $18,000 to combat hunger on campus. The grant comes from the state Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, the University said.

The funding will address food insecurity on campus which has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funds are to be used through June to help offset expenses associated with operating the Rider Food and Resource Pantry.

The grant will also make available meal swipes for students in need, create awareness of the campus food pantry and bring attention to the issue of hunger on campus.

"Every student deserves to be able to focus on their studies and not have to feel stressed about affording or finding food,” Leanna Fenneberg, vice president for Student Affairs said in a media statement.

"This grant will help us sustain a number of initiatives that have made a difference for our students.”

Last semester, 174 students visited the food pantry, a steady increase from 43 students when the pantry first opened in spring 2018.

The pantry is open every weekday and one evening, giving students access to food, toiletries, school supplies, select clothing, and a microwave and mini refrigerator lending program.

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