RVCC Food Pantry Raises $66,000 To Combat Student Hunger

Raritan Valley Community College pulled in more than $66,000 for its food pantry. The money came from an Evening of Generosity & Gratitude on Dec. 9, 2025, plus online donations. One anonymous donor gave $50,000.

The RVCC Foundation ran the event. They wanted to thank donors and kick off a campaign against hunger at school. Across the country, food insecurity hits 40% of college students. At community colleges, that number jumps to 47%.

Students visited the Resource Center & Food Pantry 9,440 times in 2025. That's 21% more than 2024. The center gives out clothes for job interviews, winter coats, gas cards, grocery cards, book vouchers, and help with transportation. Students can borrow laptops and get connected to housing and medical services.

Tierra Hall-Edward runs Counseling Services at RVCC. She manages the mental health team and programs that support students, which includes running the Resource Center & Food Pantry. The Somerset County Business Partnership put her on their 40 under 40 list in 2025.

"In truth, it shows strength and connection, reflecting our 'from RVCC, for RVCC' spirit," said Hall-Edward, per NJBIA. "The pantry isn't charity; it's community."

Students deal with mounting pressures, Hall-Edward explained. Costs keep climbing. Resources shrink. The economy throws curveballs. Meanwhile, cuts to funding mean community groups and food pantries have less to give when more people need help.

"We're seeing growing instability as students navigate rising costs, limited resources, and broader economic challenges," she said. "Students today are juggling more uncertainty, often in multiple areas of their lives."

Community partners keep the college stocked. Each week, Wegmans drops off over $1,000 in fresh produce, meat, dairy, and pantry staples. The Somerset Food Bank sends clothes and food. The Community Food Bank of New Jersey chips in with more supplies.

Student groups pitch in too. So do teachers and staff with financial gifts. Non-perishable groceries fill shelves at the back of the center.

The Foundation keeps working to bring in more money for hunger relief. Anyone can donate at www.raritanval.edu/hunger.