Student-led challenge addresses food insecurity with $25,000 in awards
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) will compete against 13 other North Carolina colleges and universities to tackle food insecurity. This initiative empowers students to raise awareness and collect food for neighbors in need. The challenge is organized by Food Lion Feeds, the grocery chain's hunger-relief platform, in collaboration with North Carolina Campus Engagement.
A total of $25,000 will be awarded to participating institutions, including a $10,000 overall prize and $5,000 prizes for each category: community college, four-year public college, and four-year independent institution. Since its inception in 2019, the Collegiate Hunger Challenge has provided over $160,000, equating to more than 1.6 million meals.
Food Lion Feeds is thrilled to collaborate with the next generation of leaders to find solutions to hunger on college campuses,” said Kevin Durkee, manager of Food Lion Feeds. “This challenge not only addresses food insecurity but also equips students with valuable experience in community service and leadership, empowering them to make a difference.”
Running from Sept. 9 to Dec. 20, 2024, the Collegiate Hunger Challenge engages colleges in activities to combat food insecurity and earn points. Since 2018, more than 30 North Carolina colleges have participated in this initiative, which kicks off in September to coincide with Hunger Action Month. During this time, Food Lion Feeds strengthens its partnership with Feeding America®, highlighting the impact of food on lives and inspiring action against hunger. Each institution selects one or two MVP Student Hunger Ambassadors to lead these efforts.
“We are so grateful to Food Lion for their ongoing partnership,” said Leslie Garvin, Executive Director, North Carolina Campus Engagement. “Not only does this initiative directly benefit students facing food insecurity, but it also develops and builds the leadership skills and dispositions of the Hunger Ambassadors, while promoting awareness, empathy, and compassion throughout the campus. In addition to addressing tangible needs, we are destigmatizing student food insecurity and mobilizing campuses to continue to address this critical issue.”
NCCU has appointed Ka ‘Niya Willingham, a junior studying criminal justice, and Kimberly Johnson, a senior biology major, as MVP Student Hunger Ambassadors. Both were selected for their dedication to alleviating hunger in the community and commitment to educating and empowering their peers. Sujayalakshmi Devarayasamudram, faculty mentor and assistant nursing professor, will support their efforts. Participating schools receive activity funds, marketing materials and ongoing support, with ambassadors receiving stipends upon completion of the campaign.
A check presentation ceremony is scheduled for Feb. 12, 2025, during North Carolina Campus Engagement’s annual Pathways to Achieving Civic Engagement Conference at Guilford Technical Community College.
