Center for Economic Justice and Action at UCSC leading University system participation in “End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities” challenge

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION-TV) -- A nationwide call to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases has been answered by more than 100 entities, including the University of California system which will be led by staff at the Center for Economic Justice and Action at UC-Santa Cruz.

The recently announced program from the White House has received 141 commitments. The University of California would pave the way for advancing "current and new efforts" to help students with essential needs.

One specific goal is to reduce food insecurity among UC students.

“Participating in the White House Challenge is such a natural fit with the goals of the work we’re leading on behalf of the UC system,” said CEJA Director Heather Bullock. “Through research, training, and advocacy, we are amplifying efforts across the UC system to address students’ basic needs, and we are excited to be part of  the national conversation around how to advance food security.”

A recently established group of companies or Consortium at the CEJA is working to establish a team of researchers across the UC system and find funding opportunities to address essential needs.

UC-Santa Cruz said the group plans to develop a network of state and national experts dedicated to finding solutions to food insecurity in students.