Mississippi Colleges Expand Food Pantries Amid Rising Student Costs

Colleges across Mississippi are increasing efforts to support students facing financial hardship, with several institutions opening or expanding food pantries to address basic needs. The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) launched a food pantry on September 1, offering groceries and personal care items to students. This initiative followed a food drive in August aimed at assisting medical and nursing students.

Jonathan Nutt, director of student services at UMMC, noted that students have diverse financial situations, and the program aims to assist any student in need. He explained that some students have limited financial support from family, and the demands of their academic programs can make it challenging to work sufficient hours to cover living expenses.

These challenges are not unique to UMMC. A 2023 survey by the Hope Center for Basic Needs found that 59% of college students nationwide lack access to at least one basic need, such as housing or transportation, and 41% reported experiencing food insecurity. The report highlights that these struggles are particularly prevalent among students from low-income backgrounds.

At the University of Southern Mississippi, the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry distributed over 890 pounds of food and hygiene products to 94 individuals during the first week of classes in August. Last academic year, the pantry recorded 2,785 visits, with 81% of those by students. Sirena Cantrell, dean of students, anticipates continued high demand, with students informing peers about the resource and faculty and staff directing those in need.

Mississippi State University's Bully's Pantry also serves students managing living costs. Hali Hollman, a recent graduate and former volunteer, described the balancing act students face with expenses, coursework, extracurriculars, and work.

Rising tuition and fees at Mississippi universities have contributed to financial strain. Between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years, in-state tuition and fees increased at the University of Mississippi (3.8%), the University of Southern Mississippi (4%), and Mississippi State University. Jackson State University saw a slight decrease in in-state tuition but an 18.3% increase in out-of-state tuition. While textbook and supply costs have remained relatively stable, food and housing expenses have increased.

Delta State University’s food pantry, The Statesman’s Shelf, has seen a significant increase in usage, with visits more than doubling from 672 in 2023-24 to 1,672 in 2025-26. Although tuition at Delta State has been flat, food and on-campus housing costs rose 3.6% between 2023-24 and 2024-25. For off-campus students, these expenses increased by 2.4%.

Limited transportation options can also hinder students' access to off-campus grocery stores. During Winter Storm Fern, which caused campus closures at Delta State, the food pantry remained accessible, serving 416 people in January, with about half of those visits occurring during the storm. The increased demand also contributed to the relaunch of Okra Threads, a campus closet that expanded this semester to offer everyday clothing, shoes, and accessories, in addition to its original focus on business attire.

Officials emphasize that addressing food insecurity and basic needs is crucial for student success and for preparing them to serve their communities. "We just want to ensure we are preparing our students for their careers and that they can eventually serve the health needs of Mississippians," Nutt stated.