UAA's Seawolf Dining and Catering donates meals to students

The fight against food insecurity begins at UAA...

In the spring 2013 semester, UAA students Nathaniel Chriest and Rachel Wintz presented their research on the food security of students at UAA, suggesting that about 17 percent of students surveyed find themselves without a sufficient amount of food once or twice a month. In Alaska, 14.6 percent of the population is food insecure, which could translate to a high portion of the student population that does not have access to sufficient food for an active and healthy life.

The students' presentation caught the attention of Seawolf Dining and Catering, along with University Housing, Dining and Conference Services, who decided to join forces to help fight food insecurity among students on UAA's campus.

This fall, Seawolf Dining and Catering donated 200 meals to the Student Health and Counseling Center for use in Creekside Eatery to assist the many students that come to them when they are hungry and in need of food.

"The center's staff often become aware of students who are lacking food resources," says Georgia DeKeyser, director of the Student Health and Counseling Center. "It is compelling to know students are committed to achieving their education goals under these difficult circumstances. We provide emergency food bags containing a three-day supply of easy-to-prepare food. We appreciate the partnership with UAA Housing in providing additional meals through the food card program."

In an effort to continue in the fight against food insecurity, Seawolf Dining and Catering hopes to be able to continue this program with the Student Health and Counseling Center in the coming semesters.

The Student Health and Counseling Center is located in Rasmuson Hall in suites 116 and 120. Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-7 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Additional information on food security is available through ENGAGE Social Issues in the Center for Community Engagement and Learning.

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