Establishing a campus garden and food pantry to address food insecurity: lessons learned

This case study describes the simultaneous establishment of a campus garden and food pantry at an urban, Hispanic-serving institution. Lessons learned and implications for practice are discussed. Participants: Students, staff, and faculty established a campus garden (February 2016) and food pantry (March 2017). Methods: University administration approved funds to establish both a campus garden and food pantry after adequate student and academic support was provided. Results: Both the campus garden and food pantry aligned with campus initiatives for student success and sustainability. The food pantry had adequate staffing and local partnerships that aided in its success, while the student-led garden struggled with student-turn over, limited financial support, and lack of regulatory guidance that has slowed progress to address food security. Conclusions: Institutions considering these strategies to address food insecurity would benefit from university financial support based on student-relevant data, dedicated staff, students, and faculty, and collaboration with local organizations.