Food insecurity among college students remains a topic of concern that may influence academic and professional success. Food insecurity refers to a situation in which one does not have reliable access to the appropriate amount of affordable, nutritious food. So, the U, along with all other Utah colleges and universities are conducting an anonymous, voluntary survey on food security on their campuses.

U students should watch their UMail accounts between September 20–October 22, 2021 to take the survey. A random sampling of 7,500 undergraduate and graduate students will be sent a link to the survey. All survey responses will be anonymous and confidential.

Students are strongly encouraged to keep an eye on their inbox and participate in the survey should they be selected. The survey only takes an average of 15-20 minutes to finish and can be completed by phone, tablet, or computer. Students who participate will have the opportunity to be entered into a series of prize drawings to win a $25 Amazon gift card.

The survey results will help inform the U about ways to provide support services for students who may be experiencing food insecurity.

The U provides a multitude of food resources for students and community members, both on and off-campus, including but not limited to:

• The Feed U Pantry, located in the Union building basement, with two satellite locations in the Eccles Health Science Educations Building and near the University Student Apartments, provides food to university students, staff and faculty
• The 211 program can help find the closest food resources to you, by simply entering your zip code
• The No Kid Hungry Free Meals Finder helps families and individuals find food distribution sites anywhere in the United States

Questions about this survey can be directed to Jake Lemon, associate director, Student Affairs Assessment and Analytics at assessment@sa.utah.edu or 801-581-5308.

If you would like more information about the food resources provided to students and community members at the university, please visit the Basic Needs Collective or text “Food” to 877-877 for other food-related resources.