UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Feed the People (FTP) market stand is back for the fall 2026 semester, offering free, farm-fresh produce and food access resources to students, faculty, staff and community members. The stand runs from 2 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday through Nov. 4 at the HUB-Robeson Center information tables.
Launched in 2022, the market stand is part of Student Farm and Food Systems, an initiative that connects students facing food insecurity or affordability challenges with fresh, locally grown produce. By setting up in a central, high-traffic part of campus, organizers aim to reach students where they already study, work and gather.
All produce sold at the stand comes from the Ross Student Farm, where it’s grown, washed and selected by students involved in the program. Those same students staff the stand each week, offering a friendly and knowledgeable presence for visitors who want cooking tips or are trying an unfamiliar vegetable for the first time. Lettuce, herbs, tomatoes and several varieties of squash are among the items typically available. The stand is free, though visitors may donate to support the program if they choose.
“One of the most special parts about FTP is seeing the excitement on people’s faces when they see that we’re offering free vegetables,” said Kylie Field, one of this semester’s student managers. “Especially individuals like one customer who told us that this stand got him through the summer.”
The market stand also connects students with other food access resources on campus. The Lion’s Pantry provides nonperishable food items, while the Food Recovery Network recovers surplus food from dining halls and large campus events and redistributes it as free meals at locations across campus and the surrounding community.
Students are encouraged to stop by each week for fresh produce, campus resources and a welcoming atmosphere. Additional basic needs resources are available through the Penn State Student Affairs website.
About Student Farm and Food Systems
Student Farm and Food Systems includes the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State, the Student Farm Club, the Food Recovery Network, the intercollege food systems minor, and course-client collaborations. The program builds students’ knowledge of sustainable food systems through hands-on learning while contributing positively to the surrounding community.
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 at studentaffairs.psu.edu.