Student-led action research on basic needs and food sovereignty as universities respond to COVID-19: An Equity Framework and a Case Study

Keywords: food systems, food sovereignty, equity, COVID-19, pandemic, university
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 03:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 05:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 39

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlights gaps in college student basic needs, especially mental health and food insecurity. National studies have shown how the pandemic exacerbated racial and economic disparities among students, as well as persistent social stigmas that limit discussions of potential responses. Santa Clara University (SCU), a mid-sized, Jesuit university, has yet to conduct a campus-wide assessment of food insecurity. After conducting a literature review of food security and food sovereignty on college campuses, we developed an equity framework and surveyed 458 SCU students in fall 2020 with a follow-up survey of 263 respondents in 2021. Food insecurity scores were standardized based on responses to USDA questions. Additionally, researchers conducted interviews and focus groups with students and staff, utilizing qualitative analysis methods to identify themes in the data. The survey indicated that 21% of respondents experienced food insecurity during their time at SCU, yet only about 30% were aware of University support. Qualitative analysis revealed multiple obstacles to food sovereignty, and who students were sharing meal points, utilizing clubs for “free food,” and creating mutual aid groups. We conclude with calls for changing campus food systems and increased funding and awareness of food aid among students to address the ongoing food injustice exacerbated by COVID. We concluded that SCU must increase investments in achieving food sovereignty with all students by diversifying campus food systems and increasing student agency and access to culturally relevant foods, and establishing this within a broader equity-centered student wellness basic need center.