There is a growing threat of food insecurity on college campuses, and schools in the area are reminding students they can find assistance through CalFresh.

Edna Hopkins, 54, is a student and mother. She knows what it feels like to struggle to put food on the table while paying a college tuition.  

“I got laid off. If I’m not going to do something, I’m going to be homeless, and I need food so what else [are] we going to do? We ask for help, we pick up the phone,” said Hopkins regarding her decision to enroll in CalFresh. 

She is studying human services at Cal State Dominguez Hills and wants to be a social worker. She wants to help people, which is why she has decided to be a student intern with CalFresh. 

She’s not afraid to speak about what the food benefits program has done for her.  

“I finally realized that there is resource[s] out there that can help a student like me, a mom like me," Hopkins said.

The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice has found that nearly half of college students have faced food insecurity in the past thirty days. 

CalFresh is the largest food program in California, and its benefits stretch food budgets to help individuals and families afford nutritious food.

At Cal State Dominguez Hills, there is a Farmers Market for students.  

CalFresh can help stretch a buck through it’s Market Match Rewards.  

“Don’t be ashamed, it’s for everybody. Regardless of race, color, whoever you are,” said Hopkins. 

Fresh produce may be seasonal, but CalFresh benefits can help families and individuals year round. For more information, click here.