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College student food insecurity remains one of the most overlooked crises on campuses today.
“Basic needs, like food, shouldn’t be something students have to worry about.”
— Jason Massarelli, Ohio University Alumnus
That quote should be obvious—but in 2025, it still isn’t a reality.
Food insecurity on college campuses is one of the most invisible crises in the U.S. But college student food insecurity doesn’t look like hunger in the way people imagine—it’s just as real.
Too many college students are facing hunger quietly, ashamed to speak up or unsure of where to turn. Many are away from home for the first time, navigating not just coursework, but housing, bills, part-time jobs—and empty fridges. Access to food shouldn’t be one more thing they have to juggle.
That’s why we were so moved by this story from Ohio University.
Jason and Mary Massarelli—proud OHIO alumni—just established the Mary and Jason Massarelli Cats’ Cupboard Endowment, a gift that will support the university’s on-campus food pantry for generations of students to come.
The endowment isn’t just about snacks and shelves. It’s about dignity.
It’s about telling students: You matter. You belong here. And we’ve got your back.
The Hidden Struggle of Student Hunger
Food insecurity on college campuses is one of the most invisible crises in the U.S. It doesn’t look like hunger in the way people imagine—but it’s just as real. It’s skipping meals before class. It’s wondering whether to buy a textbook or groceries. It’s relying on instant noodles for weeks because financial aid ran short.
With state and federal cuts hitting food banks across the country—including Ohio’s—on-campus food pantries like Cats’ Cupboard are more important than ever. The Cupboard currently helps more than 600 students and their families every month. The Massarellis’ endowment will ensure that help continues, no matter what funding disappears next year.
If you’re inspired, you can donate directly to their endowment here:
🎓 Support the Massarelli Cats’ Cupboard Endowment »
Why Is College Student Food Insecurity Growing?
The cost of higher education continues to rise, but financial aid and family support haven’t kept pace. Today’s students are juggling academic demands alongside skyrocketing tuition, expensive textbooks, and unaffordable housing. For many, part-time jobs barely cover rent, let alone a balanced diet.
A 2023 study found that nearly 40% of college students experience food insecurity during their academic careers. And this struggle disproportionately affects first-generation students, students of color, and those from low-income families.
But the problem isn’t just about empty fridges—it’s about academic success and mental health. Studies show that students facing food insecurity are more likely to struggle with concentration, anxiety, and lower GPAs. In some cases, hunger is the reason students drop out altogether.
That’s why long-term solutions like the Massarelli Cats’ Cupboard Endowment are so critical. These programs provide more than food—they offer hope, stability, and the reassurance that students don’t have to face these struggles alone.
This Is Why We’re Building Meals N Feelz
At Meals N Feelz, we’re not a 501(c)(3) just yet—but stories like this are exactly why we’re laying the foundation.
We want to help support food pantries like Cats’ Cupboard.
We want to help donors find programs already making a difference.
We want to fuel existing efforts—quietly, consistently, and with zero red tape.
So while we build, we’re pointing people toward opportunities like this one. Because no student should have to choose between learning and eating.
If You Believe Food Shouldn’t Be a Barrier to Education:
🧡 Read the original story from Ohio University:
Alumni gift addresses the “hidden, unmet need” of student food insecurity
🎓 Donate directly to the endowment:
Support the Mary and Jason Massarelli Cats’ Cupboard Endowment
📣 Help us build Meals N Feelz: