The stereotype of being a “broke college kid” is easy to believe, given that full-time students often don’t also have full-time jobs to cover the cost of living and the financial burden of higher education. But how far into basic human needs does the shortfall extend? Kristen Lucas is Associate Director of Basic Needs for the Indiana University Student Care and Resource Center. Kristen cites a 2023 study claiming that 41% of U.S. college students may be food insecure. On the Bloomington campus Lucas runs a student-only food pantry known as Crimson Cupboard. More than 7,000 Hoosier students used Crimson Cupboard in the 2024-2025 academic year, according to the university. We also hear from Christina, one of those Crimson Cupboard patrons, and Jake Bruner from Hoosier Hills Food Bank which supplies Crimson Cupboard and accepts donations on their behalf.

CREDIT:
Today’s feature story on food insecurity among college students was produced by Jack Muniz in partnership with The Media School at Indiana University. Theme music by The Mysteries of Life.