FOOD AND HOUSING INSECURITY

Campus surveys as well as national studies have shown that food and housing insecurity issues are both prevalent among and highly impactful on the well-being and success of students. A study of more than 43,000 students published by the HOPE Center found that 1 in 3 students were food insecure and almost 1 in 10 were homeless. Students who don’t have enough to eat or a stable place to live can have lower grades and even a lesser likelihood of degree completion.

Signs:

• Gradual decline in the quality of academic or work performance 
• Deterioration in physical appearance or hygiene
• Communicating to you directly about their food or housing insecurity

What to do:

1. Listen without asking probing questions and offer non-judgmental support by providing important resource information
2. Consider telling the student about the SBU Food Pantry which is located on campus, provides non-perishable and healthful food options for students, staff, and faculty 
3. Contact the Student Support Team for more information about important resources and community support

Important to remember:

• Stigma is easily one of the most difficult barriers to addressing food and housing insecurity
• Stigma surrounding basic needs insecurity prevents students from asking or receiving help