The Healey-Driscoll Administration has distributed nearly $500,000 to colleges and universities in Massachusetts to support food assistance programs for students. According to the Massachusetts government website, the funding will support campus initiatives such as food pantries, meal vouchers, and SNAP outreach. The programs are expected to assist about 36,000 students across 30 institutions.
This state initiative follows recent federal legislative changes supported by President Trump and Congressional Republicans that modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The changes may affect benefits for an estimated 150,000 Massachusetts residents. Governor Maura Healey noted the impact of these federal adjustments on food insecurity among students.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll stated that many students face difficulties balancing education costs with basic needs. The Hunger Free Campus Initiative grants are part of the state's efforts to support students’ academic progress. The Department of Higher Education is also working with regional nonprofits through the Basic Needs Security initiative to address broader issues affecting students.
Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler thanked higher education partners for their role in providing food access. Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega, acknowledged that recent SNAP changes have increased challenges related to food security, reinforcing the importance of the grant funding.
The Healey Administration has also launched a SNAP Response Hub webpage. The site includes a map illustrating SNAP impacts, locations for food assistance, and information for community participation, and has been shared with public college and university leaders.
