Food insecurity is not just a distant issue — it’s happening right here in our communities, affecting students, families and individuals who struggle to access nutritious meals.

As a food science student at NC State, I see firsthand the intersection of food production, safety and accessibility. While food banks and community initiatives work tirelessly to provide relief, they are not a long-term solution to the systemic problem of food deserts and economic barriers to healthy eating.

According to Feeding America, over 47 million people in the U.S., including nearly 14 million children, experience food insecurity in their households. This crisis demands more than temporary aid — it requires policy changes that support food affordability, expand nutritional assistance programs and incentivize local food production to ensure fresh options reach those who need them most.

We cannot remain passive in the face of this issue. I urge policymakers, local businesses and institutions to take stronger action by funding programs that address food insecurity at its root. Expanding access to affordable, healthy food should be a priority, not an afterthought. NC State and other institutions have the power to set an example by supporting campus food pantries, partnering with local farms and advocating for food justice policies.

Hunger should never be a barrier to success, especially in a nation with abundant resources. It’s time to push for lasting change and ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.