Date

12-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Collaborative Health and Human Services

First Advisor

Robyn DoCanto

Second Advisor

Amy Zamara

Abstract

Food insecurity among college students is an urgent social justice issue that limits equal access to food and well-being. This capstone project was conducted through the Basic Needs organization at California State University Monterey Bay. The purpose of this project was to reduce food insecurity by implementing an external resource within Basic Needs that distributes emergency food packages to students experiencing high levels of need. Utilizing data from the Hub membership direct outreach tracker, a CHHS intern collaborated with an MSW intern and professional staff to assemble tailored food packages using items donated from Trader Joe's and Safeway. The project increased student awareness of available Basic Needs resources and enhanced access to nutritious food. While the program continues to meet its goal of relieving short-term food insecurity, a recommended next step to improve services is replacing the cardboard distribution boxes with cost-effective insulated bags to maximize food safety and insulation.

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