Basic Needs Recognition Grants

Swipe Out Hunger awards grants to recognize outstanding work by colleges to support students' basic needs. In 2023, 5 colleges each received $3,000 in recognition grants.

Geographic Scope: United States and Canada

Focus Areas: Basic needs support, food security, expanding services for students

Eligible Uses:

• Expanding services and programs to increase access for more students
• Providing diverse food offerings aligned with students' cultural and dietary needs
• Sourcing culturally responsive and nutritious products
• Expanding meal swipe programs
• Increasing variety and quantity of ethnic foods
• Keeping pantries operational and improving essential services

Eligibility: Colleges and universities demonstrating outstanding work in supporting students' basic needs

Award Recipients (2023):

• Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
• Fort Lewis College
• Linn-Benton Community College
• SUNY Schenectady County Community College
• University of Massachusetts Lowell

Background: Following a $90,000 distribution in Swipe Grants to 30 campus pantry partners in fall 2022, Swipe Out Hunger created this recognition grant program. As pandemic-related emergency relief programs ended and economic challenges increased, the organization expanded recognition of campuses exceeding expectations.

Application Process

Swipe Out Hunger evaluates applications based on demonstrated outstanding work supporting student basic needs. Specific application procedures were announced for the 2023 cycle.

Swipe Out Hunger began its next grant cycle in Fall 2023. To be the first to know about upcoming cycles and funding opportunities, sign up for Swipe Out Hunger's newsletter.