UC San Diego Fights Food and Housing Insecurity

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• Jen Jordan- [email protected]

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At the forefront of UC San Diego's Homeless and Hunger Awareness Week, held November 17-21, is a dedication to ensuring all students have support systems in place needed to thrive.

First held in 1975 by the National Coalition for the Homeless, the week is traditionally held just before Thanksgiving. At UC San Diego, the week is organized by Associated Students (AS) and Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA), and provides community members with resources to combat food and housing insecurity.

All events, which include thrift sales, education events and food distributions and drives, are free and open to the community.

"Events like these are vital to supporting our nearly 7,000 students who rely on CalFresh," said Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Campus Life Alysson Satterlund. "These programs are a lifeline to address gaps in students' ability to access nutritious food that allows them to focus on their education. We are grateful for the support of our community, who continually step in to support these vital services."

"It is essential that we do our part to support and advocate for all Tritons," said Associated Students President William Simpson. "I want students to know they are always welcome and supported and they should feel confident engaging with the many valuable resources available on campus."

GPSA president Patiemma Rubio added that many students struggle, often in silence, with being housing and food insecure. This makes it difficult to balance their own health and well-being with the responsibilities of a student. "It is important to foster an environment where all students feel engaged and supported by their community," she shared. "I am grateful for the resources on campus available to all Tritons this week and beyond."

Throughout the week, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to donate non-perishable food and hygiene items to Triton Food Pantryor make an online donation to UC San Diego's Basic Needs Initiative.

Check out the complete list of events for Homeless and Hunger Awareness Week.

November 17

Cookware Thrift
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | The Hump
Pop-up shop with affordable kitchen essentials, including pots, pans, utensils and bakeware to make cooking easier and more sustainable.

CalFresh Enrollment Party
11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Town Square
The Live Well on Wheels mobile benefits bus will be on site to provide CalFresh information and assistance.

November 18

Dietician and Recipe Guidance
10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Revelle Food Lab
Professional dieticians will be on-hand to provide personalized nutrition advice and meal-prep tips. Learn how to create healthy, budget-friendly meals using simple ingredients and practical cooking strategies.

November 19

Produce Distribution
11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Price Center, Fourth Floor
All community members are welcome to access fresh fruits and vegetables. Bring your reusable grocery bags!

November 20

Food Drive
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Library Walk
Bring non-perishable food items to help fight food insecurity and support our campus community.

Basic Needs Pop-Up
3:30 - 5 p.m. | Mesa Nueva Lawn
Learn about the Basic Needs Center and the Triton Food Pantry and pick up free menstrual products, diapers, spice jars, non-perishable goods and fresh produce.

November 21

Professional Photo Headshots
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Library Walk
Take professional headshots to prepare for career opportunities.

Food Distribution
1 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Town Square and The Exchange Lawn at Nueva East
The Triton Food Pantry will have groceries available for all in need.