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College Awarded $20,000 Hunger-Free Campus Grant

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has received a $20,000 grant for its designation as a 2023-2024 PA Governor’s Hunger-Free Campus.

The College has been honored with the grant for the first time, following its recognition as a Hunger-Free Campus for two consecutive years. Penn Highlands is one of 30 institutions to receive $1 million in funds distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).

“We are overjoyed that we have received this grant,” stated Carole VanMeter, Director of the Foundation. “It is a lot of money for the College and the community we serve. Collaborating with multiple food banks is beneficial, but having such a resource specifically for our students aligns perfectly with our College’s mission, enabling their success on campus.”

The grant will be used to fund the establishment of a food pantry at the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Richland Campus, providing students with grab-and-go meals and supplies to prepare meals at their homes. Necessary equipment for the pantry, including refrigerators, freezers, and shelving, as well as site renovation and an inventory system, will also be purchased.

Supporting scholars and other students at the College will earn volunteer hours by working in the pantry. College employees will receive a stipend for managing the pantry and procuring food supplies.

“Students of all ages learn best when they start the day with a full stomach and are better prepared to succeed when they have access to nutritious, healthy food,” stated Governor Josh Shapiro. “That’s why my Administration fought for and delivered universal free breakfast in K-12 classrooms, and it’s why we’re fighting back against hunger on our college campuses. These grants will help colleges and universities across Pennsylvania improve and introduce programs to fight hunger and ensure students from every background have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed in Pennsylvania.”