Sussex County Community College receives $21,000 grant to combat student food insecurity
NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — Sussex County Community College (SCCC) has been awarded $21,000 from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to expand food assistance resources and help students facing food insecurity.
The funding will allow the college to strengthen existing campus initiatives and increase access to nutritious food for students experiencing financial challenges, helping ensure that basic needs do not become barriers to academic success.
College officials said the grant is intended to ease financial pressures that can interfere with students’ ability to concentrate on coursework, remain enrolled and complete their education.
“We know that students face challenges outside the classroom that can have a real impact on their education,” said Dr. Cory Homer, president of SCCC. “When a student is worried about having enough food, it’s difficult to concentrate on classes, assignments, and their future. This funding will help us provide additional support to students who need it most. We appreciate the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education’s investment in our students and their success.”
For many community college students, balancing academic responsibilities with employment, family obligations and everyday living expenses can create financial challenges. Rising costs for groceries, transportation and other necessities can place additional strain on limited budgets, leaving some students struggling to afford basic needs while pursuing a degree or certificate.
SCCC officials said addressing food insecurity is part of the college’s broader commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.
Through campus programs, community partnerships and initiatives designed to make higher education more accessible, the college works to connect students with resources that can help them overcome financial obstacles.
The $21,000 grant will support those ongoing efforts by expanding food resources and strengthening assistance for students who may otherwise struggle to meet their nutritional needs.
College officials said the investment reflects the importance of addressing students’ basic needs as part of helping them remain focused on their studies and achieve their academic and career goals.
