WASHINGTON, N.C. (WITN) – The Louise R. Lester Foundation is supporting Beaufort County Community College’s efforts to combat food insecurities among students with a $10,000 grant.

The community college says they are seeking innovative ways to address the complex issue of students impacted by poverty, and this initiative is to enhance programs already with the college with the goal that no student goes hungry.

According to the release, 16% of Beaufort County households receive SNAP benefits. This is higher than the nationwide average of 13% from the US Census.

BCCC says the Lester Foundation grant will provide much-needed financial support for the program.

“We are deeply appreciative of the Louise R. Lester Foundation’s continued commitment to our students’ welfare,” said Serena Sullivan, VP of institutional advance. “This grant will enable us to significantly bolster our food assistance programs and ensure that our students have the necessary support to succeed in their academic pursuits.”

The college reports the funds will go to expand the campus food pantry. The goal will be to offer a wider variety of nutritional foods, fresh produce, and full meals, and access to microwaves and refrigerators campus-wide.

Students are asked to fill out a survey through a QR code on the available options and to help keep an inventory of what is taken.