SNAP Benefits Suspension Leaves North Carolina College Students Struggling

UNC Greensboro junior Taniyah McCormick found herself visiting the Spartan Open Pantry more frequently this month.

 

With the suspension of her $52 monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the federal government shutdown, every bit of assistance counts.

 

"It may not seem like much," McCormick said, "but it makes a difference."

 

She's among nearly 85,000 college students in North Carolina affected by the SNAP benefits suspension.

 

According to the Student Basic Needs Coalition, approximately 30% of students at five North Carolina campuses reported low or very low food security status.

 

Many students are unaware of their eligibility for SNAP benefits.

 

Jessica Soldavini, assistant professor at UNC's Gillings School of Global Public Health, noted that food security among college students has been historically overlooked.

 

To address this, the Carolina Hunger Initiative launched NC College Food Benefits in January 2025.

 

This campaign provides information on SNAP and includes an eligibility screener tailored for students.

 

"A lot of the specific questions a college student would have weren't always addressed in general SNAP outreach materials," Soldavini explained.

 

For instance, having a meal plan doesn't necessarily disqualify a student from receiving benefits.

 

Work-study participation and credit hour requirements are also considered.

 

Despite these resources, applying for SNAP can be challenging.

 

Andrew Mails-Saine, executive director of the nonprofit Wesley-Luther, which runs the Spartan Open Pantry, acknowledged the application process isn't the easiest.

 

At UNC Pembroke, where 53% of students receive Pell Grants, the university offers resources like food and clothing pantries and support for housing and transportation.

 

Student peer leaders are trained to guide peers through the SNAP application process.

 

"All of this is a community of care," said Christie Poteet, assistant vice chancellor for student affairs.

 

Back at UNC Greensboro, the Spartan Open Pantry distributes over 2,000 pounds of food weekly.

 

With rising food prices and increased demand, that number is expected to grow.

 

Many students work multiple jobs or send money home to support their families.

 

Mails-Saine hopes the current situation prompts reflection.

 

"I hope this causes some soul-searching," he said.

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