During Loma Linda University's Homecoming Weekend in March 2024, alumni of the School of Behavioral Health (SBH) ventured out of their homes on a rainy Sunday morning to participate in the Alumni Walk for Student Food Security. Despite the weather, their dedication to supporting current students was unwavering as they gathered to raise funds for those facing food insecurity—a reality for many university students, including a significant portion of SBH's student body.
Food insecurity, often called the “invisible epidemic,” affects up to 30% of university students nationally, with numbers even higher for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds (McCoy, et al., 2022). Within SBH specifically, over half of our students come from economically disadvantaged families, and many face the daily challenge of accessing adequate nutrition.
The goal of the walk was simple but impactful: raise awareness and financial support to provide $50 grocery gift cards to 100 students in need. The alumni walkers, backed by donations from the SBH community, faculty, and staff, walked with purpose, knowing that their participation would bring much-needed relief to their fellow SBH students.
Although the day was marked by rain, it didn't dampen the spirit of those who showed up. Together, they demonstrated the power of community, sending a clear message that no student should struggle to meet basic needs. The funds raised will make a meaningful difference, helping to provide essential groceries for students balancing their education with financial hardship.
This walk is not the School's first initiative addressing food insecurity. SBH has long supported its students through weekly lunches, donations of non-perishable food items, and maintaining free-to-students food kitchens. Yet, the need persists, and events like the Alumni Walk for Food Security highlight the ongoing efforts to meet this critical need.
After a successful event, organizers are already planning to make this an annual tradition, with the next walk set for Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 8 AM. Watch your inbox and our social media channels for more details! The 2024 participants hope their efforts will inspire more alumni to join in future years, expanding the reach of the support and ensuring that no student has to face hunger alone.
—Written by Dr. Winetta Oloo, Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs