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Food insecurity is a challenge many college students face, but CSU Bakersfield continues to take steps to support students through resources like the CSUB Food Pantry and the Edible Garden. These programs provide healthy food, fresh produce, and a welcoming space where students can receive support without judgment. 

To highlight the work being done behind the scenes, we sat down with a College Corps fellow who works closely with both the Food Pantry and the Edible Garden. She shared her experiences, what a typical day looks like, and why these programs matter so much to our campus community.

She explained that her role is split between the CSUB Food Pantry and the Edible Garden’s weekly pop-up farm stand. At the pantry, she spends her time restocking shelves, organizing donated items, greeting students, and making sure the space stays clean and welcoming. When working with the Edible Garden, she helps harvest vegetables, sort produce, and prepare for the farm stand that opens up each Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in front of the pantry.

She became interested in this work because of her passion for food access and sustainability. She shared that college can be overwhelming, and no student should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. Being part of a program that provides direct support to students made her feel like she was contributing to something deeply meaningful. What she enjoys most about her work is seeing the immediate impact it has on students. She says that when students walk into the pantry and feel a sense of relief, it reminds her why the work is important. She also loves the hands-on nature of the Edible Garden like planting, harvesting, and watching the produce go directly to the campus community. It is fulfilling to know that the effort put into growing the garden leads to healthy, fresh food for others. She wishes more students knew that the Food Pantry and Edible Garden are open to all students, staff, and faculty. CSUB also hosts a monthly community food distribution every third Monday from 11 AM to 1 PM.

Programs like the CSUB Food Pantry and Edible Garden are vital parts of the campus community. They reflect CSUB’s ongoing commitment to supporting student well-being through access to nutritious food and a welcoming environment. 

If you or someone you know needs ongoing support, here are reliable community food organizations:

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