By Rachel Gallego

When most people think of food insecurities, they think of low-income families or particular parts of the country and neighborhoods. While those issues still exist, many people do not realize that it affects college students as well.

Food insecurity refers to the inconsistent availability to nutritious foods and adequate amounts of food. According to Feeding America, 23% of adults who face hunger have attended college or a technical school.

Nutrition is one of the most important and fundamental foundations to ensuring a healthy life. California, sadly, was placed in the top 10 states that were observed to have higher household food insecurities than the U.S. national average. Fortunately, Donate Don’t Dump is a volunteer and teen-run organization that strives to alleviate hunger while stopping commercial food waste. CSUSM works closely with this organization. We have many student volunteers, and they hold food distributions right across from campus. There is always more food than people, and the more people they get, the more short-dated and surplus food they can save.

The food distributions are for everyone, so do not be intimidated to pick up some food, because as college students I think many of us can agree that we are on a tight budget. Nutrition is essential to academic achievement and optimal performance when participating in sports. Some serious health issues can arise from exercising without proper nutrition to help your body recover. For more information visit Donate Don’t Dump’s website at: http://donatedontdump.net/ or find them on Facebook.

This semester’s remaining food distributions are on Feb. 25, March 11 and 25, as well as April 8 and 22 in the parking lot at Summit Church (next to The Quad dorms) at 2 p.m. It is recommended that students show up early to get first-pick of food.