Planting seeds, meeting needs: examining the perceptions of growing food security volunteers

Food and housing insecurity among college students is increasing, generating academic, physical, and mental health challenges that undermine educational equity. While many campuses have expanded food pantries and basic-needs infrastructure, student-led initiatives play an increasingly important role. This study examines volunteer motivations and perceived impacts of a large university’s Growing Food Security student-run farm, which donates over 10,000 pounds of produce annually to the campus food pantry. Using semi-structured interviews with student leaders and volunteers, the researchers found motivations rooted in connection, personal food security, and community building, offering insight into student engagement and mutual aid in campus food-security efforts.