CSCU outlines systemwide food‑security work: Stop & Shop grants, campus pantries and SNAP outreach

Leslie (system staff) briefed the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) Finance Committee on systemwide efforts to address student food insecurity and other nonacademic barriers to retention. The presentation described private donations, campus pantries, outreach partnerships and statutory survey requirements that will support coordinated action across campuses.

Leslie said the system received an early partnership from Stop & Shop that helped scale campus food programs: "Stop and Shop provided us with our first, contribution, which really was a game changer for all of our institutions." She said Stop & Shop contributions progressed from roughly $100,000 in the first year to $133,000 and $156,500 in subsequent years (figures provided in the presentation). Staff said grants supported expansion from small, volunteer run efforts to organized pantries and satellite distribution.

Other elements of the system's work - 2‑1‑1 partnership: CSCU used the 2‑1‑1 information network and trained roughly 1,200 faculty, students and staff on how to connect students to local meal options and food resources in their ZIP codes. Presenters emphasized that 2‑1‑1 is a resource students can access for hot meals, food banks and community providers. - Foodshare partnership: Several campuses leverage Foodshare to obtain regular fresh produce and food; campuses report that participation sometimes brings equipment support (for example, requests for freezers where needed). - SNAP and SNAP‑related supports: Leslie said campuses are working with the Department of Social Services and community action agencies to increase SNAP outreach and to use SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) and related waivers where applicable; she noted that all 12 community colleges are SNAP E&T providers and that the program now covers CT State campuses as well. - Public Act surveys: The presentation referenced a statutory requirement for regular student surveys (listed in materials as "Public Act ... 101" in the meeting); CSCU will align its existing campus surveys and system reporting with the statutory schedule to ensure consistent data on student needs. - Student Success Council and communications: Vice presidents for student affairs are coordinating a May summit to review communication channels (financial‑aid letters, social media, learning‑management system sites) and to standardize ways campuses share resource information with students.

Presenters said the campus work is now a networked effort — pantries have become hubs to share information about community resources (SNAP, emergency aid, transportation) and to connect students to institutional and community supports. The report was provided to regents in advance; staff said a written draft report will be distributed to regions and campuses for reference.

Ending The item was informational; no committee vote was required. Regents and staff discussed ways to expand publicity about partnerships and to ensure students know how to access resources during orientation and via campus communications.