Essex County College Hosts Farmers Market Pop-Up to Combat Student Food Insecurity

NEWARK, N.J. – For more than 50 years, Essex County College has been committed to educating and enriching the lives of its students. That commitment extends beyond the classroom, as the college continues to prioritize student nutrition and healthy eating habits to support academic success.

For the third consecutive year, ECC hosted its highly anticipated Farmers Market Pop-Up on Wednesday, March 19, at the second-floor forum. The event, a vital initiative addressing food insecurity on campus, distributed more than a ton of fresh food—approximately 1,800 pounds—to nearly 200 students.

The program was made possible through a partnership between ECC’s Office of Student Cares and the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE), funded through the Hunger-Free Grant. This grant empowers educational institutions to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to combat student hunger and meet students’ basic needs.

“Ensuring that our students have access to essential resources is a collective effort, and we are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by ECC’s Office of Student Cares,” said Dr. Keith Kirkland, dean of student affairs. “Their hard work, combined with the generous support of the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, makes initiatives like the Farmers Market possible.”

Food insecurity is a growing concern on college campuses nationwide. Research shows that one in five college students experience hunger and lack consistent access to nutritious food, which can have a profound impact on their academic performance and overall well-being.

“At Essex County College, we recognize that student success goes beyond the classroom. Access to nutritious food is a fundamental need, and initiatives like our Farmers Market Pop-Up play a crucial role in supporting our students’ well-being,” said Dr. Leigh Bello-Bryan, associate dean of student affairs and special projects. “By addressing food insecurity, we are not only nourishing bodies but also empowering minds to focus on their academic and personal growth.”

ECC students in need of additional food assistance can visit the Student Food Pantry, located on the first floor of the Megastructure, Room 1192, across from the elevator. Students can schedule an appointment to receive a food package by calling 973-877-3055 during business hours or emailing [email protected].

For more information about ECC’s Office of Student Cares, email [email protected].