Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program; established, report.
Impact
The implementation of SB318 is expected to lead to significant changes in how public colleges and universities address student hunger. Institutions that opt to participate in the program must satisfy specific criteria to receive grants, which are intended to facilitate the establishment of crucial resources like food pantries and nutrition programs. Additionally, schools will be required to conduct regular surveys and create task forces to continually assess the effectiveness of their food security measures, thereby institutionalizing a commitment to addressing these issues over time.
Summary
SB318 establishes the Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program in Virginia, aiming to combat food insecurity among students at public institutions of higher education. The program is structured to incentivize schools to create initiatives that reduce food scarcity on campuses, such as establishing on-campus food pantries, meal credit donation systems, and hosting events to inform students about available food services. By creating a formal designation for 'Hunger-Free Campuses,' the program seeks to raise awareness and promote sustainable solutions to food insecurity.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB318 may include discussions about the adequacy of funding for the program and concerns regarding how well it will be supported at varying institutions, especially those with less financial flexibility. Some legislators may argue for increased appropriations to ensure that the program effectively assists all eligible institutions, while others may question the optional nature of the participation, suggesting that it might lead to inconsistent support for students across different schools. Legislative discussions might also raise points about the effectiveness of existing food assistance programs in conjunction with this new initiative.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.