The Student Food Security Council (SFSC) at Baylor University is spearheading an ambitious initiative to combat student food insecurity while reducing waste. Forming within the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, this council aims to establish a comprehensive food recovery network in collaboration with Chartwells Higher Education and the national non-profit, Food Recovery Network. The project seeks to repurpose leftover dining hall food for redistribution to students in need, ensuring that nutritious meals reach those who require them most. This effort underscores the university’s commitment to addressing social issues and fostering a supportive community environment.

Initiated by Waco junior Bella Burns, the SFSC has been actively engaging with key stakeholders to develop strategies that tackle food insecurity head-on. Weekly meetings bring together passionate students and dedicated staff members to brainstorm solutions and implement effective plans. A primary focus of the council is to establish a system where surplus food from campus dining facilities can be efficiently cooled, packaged, and delivered to The Store, Baylor’s student food pantry. By doing so, they aim to prevent valuable resources from going to waste and ensure every student has access to nourishing meals.

Marcus Franklin, the marketing and communications specialist for the Baylor Collaborative, plays a pivotal role in guiding the SFSC. He emphasizes the importance of involving more student voices in addressing this critical issue. “We want to create a platform where students feel heard and supported,” Franklin notes. The council’s efforts extend beyond just food distribution; they are committed to raising awareness about food insecurity and promoting discussions that challenge existing stigmas. Starting with Penland Crossroads, the plan is to gradually expand the network to cover all dining halls across the campus.

Moreover, the SFSC aspires to extend its impact beyond the university grounds by transporting meals to local food pantries and shelters in Waco. Recognizing that many students face barriers such as lack of transportation or financial constraints, the council believes that small collective efforts can make a significant difference. They advocate for prioritizing food recovery over composting whenever possible, ensuring that usable food reaches those in need first. Ultimately, the SFSC envisions a future where no student has to worry about accessing sufficient, nutritious meals, thereby enhancing their overall collegiate experience.

The SFSC’s initiatives not only address immediate food security concerns but also contribute to broader environmental sustainability goals. By transforming surplus food into much-needed meals, the council fosters a culture of resourcefulness and community care. Through these efforts, Baylor University demonstrates its dedication to nurturing both academic excellence and social well-being, ensuring that every student can thrive without the burden of food insecurity.