Discover Food Services Navigation Guide
Food insecurity is being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable and nutritious food; this can be due to lack of money and/or access to resources.
Addressing Homelessness or Hunger are both Statewide and National Issues:
According to the Hope Lab #Real College survey released in 2020, nearly 3 out of 5 students struggle with basic needs. Students who are Black/African American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Indigenous are 20% more likely to experience basic needs insecurity than white students. Additionally, at SMC a survey conducted in 2019 showed that 50% of SMC students struggle to afford food.
Food security defines that students have physical, social, and economical access to nutritious foods that follows their food preferences and dietary needs.
Food security is a huge issue on college campuses, as it harms students ability to succeed in classes.
Food resources allow students easy access to navigate food security resources such as:
- Learning how to access help
- Where to find food
- Connecting with resources
- Providing food options
SMC is here for you!
Bodega (Food Pantry)
SMC's First Centralized Food Pantry! Any currently enrolled student is welcome to come by to receive non-perishable food items, fresh produce, and toiletries. Open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. (neighbors the main cafeteria on the east side (by the science building). For instructions and Covid Guidelines: Food Security Programs
Meal Project @ SMC
Meal Project is the name of the meal programs currently available at SMC: Everytable meal deliveries (7 meals a week) delivered directly to your home every week at no cost. You will be able to choose from a set menu of chef-prepared meal options that are ready to eat in 2.5 minutes or less.
Bento is a text-based meal program for on the go. With Bento students can text a number when they are hungry and a list of restaurants in their area, where they can get a free meal will pop up (7 meals a week).
Students can email foodsecurity@smc.edu to sign-up..
Need free grocery money?
CalFresh is California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that provides individuals and families with money to buy food and groceries. You may be eligible for up to $250 per month in CalFresh benefits. Students and non-students can apply online at http://www.getcalfresh.org/. Students can also email Foodsecurity@smc.edu for additional assistance.
