Huntington Beach, Calif. — Golden West College (GWC) has launched an urgent campaign to help students stay fed and stay in school as the statewide pause on CalFresh payments leaves hundreds of students without critical support.
Even before the government shutdown, two in three GWC students were struggling to afford food, housing, and hygiene essentials. Now, with CalFresh assistance suspended, more than 40 percent of students are unsure where their next meal will come from.
“This pause in benefits has created an immediate crisis for thousands of students, and we know that food insecurity is one of the most significant and immediate barriers to education,” said Andre Manukyan, Associate Dean of Equity and Special Programs. “When students face hunger, their ability to learn, study, and remain in school is directly impacted. And at GWC, we believe no one should have to choose between their next meal and their education. This campaign is our direct response to support our students, ensuring that a temporary crisis doesn’t derail their entire academic journey.”
The Emergency Food Fund will provide immediate relief through the distribution of emergency food boxes filled with nutritious, shelf-stable items like rice, pasta, canned goods, and hygiene products. These boxes will be distributed through GWC’s Basic Needs Center, The Stand, which serves hundreds of students each month with food, clothing, and other essentials.
A gift of $63 supports one student for a full month. Donations of any size will directly support students facing food insecurity and ensure they can continue pursuing their educational goals.
To learn more, visit www.goldenwestcollege.edu/hunger.
