A reported 67% of community college students are food insecure. CCBC is taking proactive steps to address the issue on its three main campuses.
As of Fall 2023, CCBC students can request and anonymously pick up free food items and necessities from one of 96 food lockers installed across the Catonsville, Dundalk and Essex campuses.
The food locker program enables any student with a CCBC ID number to submit an online request for food and hygiene products. Once the order is ready, the student is provided with a locker number and passcode so they can retrieve their items at their convenience. Online ordering and flexible pick-up hours are part of the design. They offer anonymity and accessibility to CCBC's diverse student body, who often balance their academic pursuits with various life responsibilities.
“Come to us as you are,” said Dell Hagan Rhodes, CCBC’s director of Student Engagement. “Because everything that is you is perfect.”
“There are no questions asked,” added Crissy Hoffman, CCBC’s assistant director of Student Engagement. Students curious about the program are encouraged to visit or email her office.
The food locker program has proven to be popular. In its first semester, campus food lockers served 797 CCBC students, and demand continues to grow. To meet the increasing need, the college plans to add more food lockers, maintain food pantries, distribute gift cards and connect students with alternative resources when the college is closed.
“Students should be able to focus on being students, not ‘How am I going to eat?’ or ‘How will I take care of my hygiene?’” said Jordan Scott, Student Life ambassador for Student Engagement and program volunteer.
Donations and sustained financial support will keep the program thriving. Current funding comes from various sources, including organizations like Sodexo, grants, the CCBC foundation and an annual staff fundraiser. Donations of food and hygiene products also play a crucial role. Staff and volunteers have created an Amazon Wishlist containing items that are most requested and used by students.
If you want join the effort, consider purchasing from the CCBC Food Locker Amazon Wishlist. Items will be delivered directly to CCBC.
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