For many college students, earning a degree requires balancing far more than classes and exams. Rising housing, inflation, transportation, and grocery costs have made it difficult for many students to meet their basic needs while pursuing their education.

At Pasadena City College, partnerships between the college and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank are helping address one of those critical needs: access to nutritious food.

During a recent food distribution event on campus, Pasadena City College student Ducien shared why these resources are so important, not only for students but also for the broader community.

“By having these distributions, it takes away barriers from students and neighbors accessing essential nutrition assistance, especially in today’s challenging economy,” he explained.

Related: Hunger on College Campuses

Campus food distributions help address those challenges by bringing nutritious food directly to where students already spend much of their time. Rather than requiring students to travel long distances or navigate unfamiliar assistance programs, these events make food access convenient, welcoming, and accessible.

Ducien emphasized that the impact extends beyond convenience.

“A lot of students would go hungry without this type of event,” he said.

His words reflect a reality facing many college students across Los Angeles County and throughout the nation. Food insecurity does not discriminate by age, background, or educational goals. Many students work part-time jobs, support family members, or face unexpected financial hardships while pursuing their degrees.

Having experienced food insecurity himself, Ducien also spoke about another important aspect of these events: reducing the stigma that can sometimes accompany seeking assistance.

Too often, individuals who need support feel embarrassed or hesitant to ask for help. Community-centered food distributions can help change that narrative by creating an environment where neighbors feel welcomed, respected, and supported.

By incorporating a sense of community and support into these events, students can access resources without feeling isolated or judged. Instead, they are reminded that communities care for one another.

Related: A Family Affair to Help Those in Need at Cerritos College 

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank works with community partners, including colleges, universities, and other organizations throughout Los Angeles County, to help ensure students have access to nutritious food while pursuing their educational goals. These partnerships help remove barriers to food access and allow students to focus on what matters most: building a brighter future for themselves and their families.

We are grateful to Ducien for sharing his experience and helping shine a light on the realities many students face. Stories like his remind us that hunger can affect anyone, and that when communities come together to support one another, we can help ensure no student has to choose between pursuing an education and having enough to eat.

Together, we can build a future where every student has the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and succeed.