UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — For the fifth consecutive year, Penn State is partnering with the nonprofit Swipe Out Hunger for the fall “Swipe Out Hunger” drive. Running from Nov. 16 through Nov. 22 to correspond with National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, Penn State students at any residential campus can donate $1, $5, $10 or $15 when they pay for their meal at any residential dining hall facility or when using mobile ordering.
Donated funds support the Penn State Student Emergency Fund, which provides financial support and emergency dining dollars for students in need.
Last year, donations collected during the fall and spring from the University Park dining commons, HUB-Robeson Center dining locations, and Commonwealth Campuses totaled nearly $43,000.
The Swipe Out Hunger campaign will remain open through the end of the fall semester for students to continue donating their leftover dining dollars as the semester closes on Dec. 19.
“Our partnership with Swipe Out Hunger highlights the importance of coming together to support students in need,” said Leanne Lenz, senior associate director for Student Care and Advocacy. “Donating during the Swipe Out Hunger drive not only helps fellow Penn Staters facing food insecurity but also strengthens our community, creating a healthier and more connected campus for everyone.”
According to the Hope Center 2023-24 basic needs survey, 41% of college students experience food insecurity nationally. Recent suspension of SNAP benefits has also heightened food insecurity among Penn State students who depend on these resources.
The Swipe Out Hunger drive is part of a University-wide effort to support students who may be having trouble meeting basic needs. Student Care and Advocacy, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, is part of a basic needs' collaborative group with strategic campus partners who meet regularly and work together to support students.
This collaborative includes representation from Student Care and Advocacy, the Sokolov-Miller Financial Literacy Center and student organizations like; Students United Against Poverty, the Lion’s Pantry, the Food Recovery Network and Housing and Food Services,
Penn State Student Affairs has resources available for students facing food or housing insecurity. Students from all campuses with an immediate need can complete the Basic Needs Request form to get started.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills, and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.