Community Food Security

This class explores how communities work together to address hunger, reduce food waste, and build more sustainable food systems. Through this interactive Byrne Seminar, students will learn about the causes and consequences of food insecurity while examining the roles that nonprofit organizations, schools, government agencies, and community members play in creating food-secure communities. During an immersive spring break experience in New Brunswick, students will partner with local organizations and schools to support community-based food projects focused on reducing food waste and improving access to healthy food. Working alongside community partners, students will gain firsthand experience with service-learning initiatives while exploring practical approaches to addressing food insecurity. Through reflection, discussion, and hands-on engagement, students will connect classroom learning with real-world challenges and opportunities. Ultimately, students will develop a deeper understanding of food systems and community food security while building skills in collaboration, civic engagement, and problem-solving. By contributing to meaningful local projects, students will see how collective action can strengthen communities and promote a more just and sustainable food future.

Professors: Cara Cuite (Human Ecology) and Jennifer Shukaitis (Family and Community Health Science)