FRESH— Food Resources Erase Student Hunger

More than half of all community-college students struggle with food insecurity, according to “The Hidden Hunger on College Campuses” written by Laura McKenna. To help meet that need locally, Wabash Valley College Student Senate launched FRESH, Food Resources Erase Student Hunger, an initiative to ensure WVC students don’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.

With assistance from faculty, staff, students and the community, FRESH makes non-perishable food items and other necessities, such as personal products and paper goods, available to all WVC students in need, with no exceptions.

The concept of FRESH was born after faculty members discussed students who had come to them in need. Those couple of students and those incidents sparked concern that there were many more who were not asking for help.

Visit FRESH

Students needing assistance are asked to bring their student I.D. to FRESH, open in the Student Lounge | Student Center

Students who have an emergency and need to access FRESH outside of hours can text Rachel Refenes at 732-266-1784 to arrange a pickup time. 

Monday - Friday from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM (CST). 

FRESH also includes several grab-n-go snack items for anyone who needs a quick bite; items include crackers, granola bars, chips, and more.

Donations to FRESH

Through individual donations, local organizations, and Heartland Worship Center’s Bridges of Hope, FRESH was launched and continues to serve students.

However, in order to sustain the program, community donations are always welcome. Those wishing to donate non-perishable food, personal hygiene products, or those wishing to make a cash donation may contact Jill Winter, WVC FRESH Faculty Coordinator, at winterj@iecc.edu or at (618) 263-5123.