The Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) Resource Center & Food Pantry is working to address the increasing challenge of food insecurity among college students. Tierra Hall-Edward, Director of Counseling Services at RVCC, emphasizes that using the pantry is an act of strength and community. “In truth,” said Hall-Edward, “it shows strength and connection, reflecting our ‘from RVCC, for RVCC’ spirit. The pantry isn’t charity; it’s community. It exists to support everyone in the RVCC family, helping us care for one another, and building a stronger, more compassionate campus.”
Food insecurity continues to be a significant issue at colleges nationwide. At RVCC, there were 9,440 visits to the Resource Center & Food Pantry in 2025—a 21% increase from the previous year. Nationally, research indicates that 40% of all college students and nearly half of community college students face challenges in accessing enough quality food.
Hall-Edward leads mental health staff and oversees initiatives aimed at student well-being at RVCC. Her work has been recognized by the Somerset County Business Partnership, which included her on its 40 under 40 list for outstanding contributions in 2025.
The resource center offers more than just food assistance. Students can receive clothing suitable for job interviews or daily use, gas and grocery cards, book vouchers, transportation help, laptop loans, as well as referrals for housing and medical resources. The food pantry itself stocks non-perishable items.
Support for these services comes from several sources within the community. Weekly deliveries from Wegmans provide fresh produce and other groceries valued over $1,000; the Somerset Food Bank donates clothing and food; additional contributions come from the Community Food Bank of New Jersey as well as financial donations from student groups, faculty members, staff, and other local donors.
According to Hall-Edward: “We’re seeing growing instability as students navigate rising costs, limited resources, and broader economic challenges.” She added: “At the same time, funding cuts to community organizations and food pantries mean there’s less support available to meet increasing demand. Students today are juggling more uncertainty, often in multiple areas of their lives. So while the needs themselves haven’t changed, the challenges around meeting them have become more sophisticated and urgent.”
On December 9th last year, the RVCC Foundation hosted an “Evening of Generosity & Gratitude” event to recognize donors who support efforts against hunger on campus. The event raised over $66,000—bolstered by a $50,000 anonymous donation—for continued operations of the food pantry. This gathering also launched a new fundraising campaign by the foundation focused on fighting hunger among students.
More information about supporting these initiatives can be found at www.raritanval.edu/hunger.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA), which serves private-sector employers across New Jersey through advocacy and partnerships with businesses and academic institutions (official website), continues its mission under president Michele Siekerka (official website). The association provides essential services such as cost-saving benefits and practical information to advance competitive excellence (official website).
