Unlocking Success: How CalFresh Benefits Keep College Students on Track

A recent study has pulled back the curtain on the crucial role of food security in students’academic journeys. Researchers from the UC Berkeley Center for Studies in Higher Education found that community college students who consistently received CalFresh benefits during their first year were significantly more likely to stay enrolled and complete a full course load. It’s a reminder that while small benefits can seem trivial, they can have a tremendous impact on thousands of lives, especially in California’s extensive community college system.

Igor Chirikov, a senior researcher for the study, shared some compelling statistics: students who received these benefits showed a 1.4% increase in earning 30 credits and a 2.6% boost in returning for a second year. While those numbers might not pop off the page, they add up in a context where every percentage point counts. Unfortunately, there’s a troubling gap—many eligible students aren’t signing up for CalFresh due to barriers in the enrollment process.

With paperwork and qualifications that can confuse even seasoned bureaucrats, many potential recipients slip through the cracks. To combat this, colleges are encouraged to guide students to their basic needs centers, which can assist them in navigating the enrollment maze. In a world where it’s easy to overlook the basics—like having enough food—this study serves as a gentle nudge to reflect on the foundational needs of students. Because let’s face it, no one can learn on an empty stomach!