The Food Bank’s Mobile Food Pantry goes to locations where food assistance is needed most, including college campuses like Pasadena City College.

For many college students, earning a degree is about more than attending classes and studying for exams. It often means balancing work, family responsibilities, and financial challenges while pursuing a better future.

For Sophia, a student at Pasadena City College (PCC), the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank’s Mobile Food Pantry (MFP) on campus has become an important resource that helps her focus on her education while easing the burden of food costs for her family.

Sophia, who works at the school’s Pathways Center, learned about the food assistance resource at her campus through her job, and understands how important it is to be informed about available support services so she can help connect fellow students with resources they may need.

“I came to the food pantry because it’s one of the awesome resources that our school provides,” Sophia said. “Not only does it help relieve some financial stress on my mom and help with groceries, but it also helps me better inform myself so I can pass that information on to other students.”

The Growing Challenge of Student Hunger

There is often a misconception that college students are financially supported by their families or that food assistance programs are intended for other populations. In reality, many students are working multiple jobs, supporting family members, and navigating rising living expenses while trying to complete their education.

Sophia’s situation reflects the challenges many students face.

Currently pursuing double majors in cosmetology and marketing, Sophia is preparing to transfer to Sacramento State University. While working toward her academic goals, she also helps support her household.

“Prices are escalating,” she explained. “Both of my parents are cancer survivors, so their ability to work isn’t the same as before.”

Her mother works part-time, while Sophia works two jobs to help make ends meet.

“This provides help so that I don’t have to stress about picking up a third job, or my mom having to worry about how she’s going to put food on the table,” she said.

The Food Bank’s Mobile Food Pantry program helps bring nutritious food directly to the most needed locations, including college campuses, making it easier for students to access support where they already spend much of their time.

As student hunger continues to affect campuses throughout Los Angeles County, partnerships between educational institutions and the Food Bank remain critical. If you would like to support programs like the Mobile Food Pantry, consider donating to the Food Bank.