Discover the remarkable milestones and transformative impact achieved by Student LunchBox in Q2 2024. Learn about our expanded partnerships,

SLB and GoldenTree Join Forces to Combat College Food Insecurity

Imagine a world of overflowing abundance – fields bursting with ripe produce, overflowing warehouses, and shelves stocked with an unimaginable bounty. Now imagine, in that same world, millions facing hunger pangs, their cupboards bare. This isn't science fiction, it's the stark reality of our time. In the United States alone, an estimated 40% of all food produced – enough to nourish millions – goes to waste every single year. It's a paradox that tears at the fabric of our soc

Kelly Alarcon, Board Member, Student LunchBox Kelly Alarcon is a professional nutrition and health educator at Food Finders, a food rescue organization dedicated to reducing hunger and improving nutrition in communities. Her professional journey began in the automotive industry, where she spent over 25 years enhancing her skills in client relations and operations management. This extensive experience allowed Kelly to develop invaluable expertise in leadership, organizational

The unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic led to the emergence of Student LunchBox (SLB) as a beacon of hope for countless students grappling with the devastating effects of sudden campus closures, job losses, and financial hardships. Established in 2020 by Karlen Nurijanyan, the CEO and Founder, whose personal journey is intertwined with the organization's mission, SLB has become a force for change in the fight against campus hunger. Karlen's story begins i

In the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where the pursuit of higher education is a cherished goal for many, a silent challenge often goes unnoticed: food insecurity. Student LunchBox emerges as a stalwart ally in this fight, dedicated to ensuring that college students can pursue their academic dreams without the burden of hunger. The significance of supporting higher education is undeniable. It is the foundation upon which the future of our communities is built. Yet, the path to

Amid a university that thrums with the energy of youthful aspirations and scholarly pursuits, there is a student named Alex. This fictional character embodies the trials and tribulations faced by countless real-life students. Alex's days are a marathon of academic lectures, part-time employment at a local café, and leadership roles in several campus clubs. Each night, as the campus quiets down, Alex sits under the dim light of a desk lamp, poring over textbooks and lecture no

An Overview of the Student Loan Dept & Forgiveness Programs The Department of Education's initiative offers a beacon of hope through various components that provide significant relief. The program's cornerstone is the Income- Driven Repayment (IDR) plan , which promises a paradigm shift in managing student loan repayments. This plan is designed to align monthly payments with the borrower's income level, thereby reducing the financial strain. Another key element is the Public

The tragic incident at Prague's Charles University on December 21, 2023, marks one of the deadliest mass shootings in Czech Republic history. A 24-year-old history student, identified as the perpetrator, first killed his father in the village of Hostouň, west of Prague, before carrying out the attack at the university. The shooting resulted in the death of 14 people, including the gunman, and left at least 25 others injured. The university, known for its historical significan

Food insecurity among college students in the United States is a national crisis that requires immediate attention. While the COVID-19 pandemic initially made this issue much worse, the problem is now tied to broader challenges such as high rent, inflation, and the ongoing rise in tuition fees. These economic pressures have made it difficult for many students to afford both their education and their basic needs. With job instability and the high cost of living in 2026, many s

Imagine sitting in a lecture hall with 200 of your peers. You are all there for the same reason: to learn, to build something, to move toward a future you have worked hard to reach. But look around that room more carefully. According to the American College Health Association's Fall 2024 National College Health Assessment, roughly 40 of those students have been diagnosed with anxiety. Another 25 are living with depression. Around 156 of them walked into that lecture hall alre

Honoring and learning about American Indians is essential to living in the United States. It can feel overwhelming to begin if you want to know more about the people who came before you. That’s why Native American Heritage Month was created. The first designation was in 1990, and since 1994, the month has received different names, such as “Native American Heritage Month ” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.” The purpose of the month is to honor and

Student LunchBox volunteers serving students at Pierce College in Los Angeles. In the expansive realm of societal compassion, nonprofits emerge as silent architects of change, tackling multifaceted challenges. Here, the pressing issue of college student hunger takes center stage, casting a shadow over educational aspirations. Nonprofits are pivotal in reshaping this narrative, offering immediate relief and long-term strategies. Student LunchBox stands out in this landscape, n

We are proud to announce that Student LunchBox is a winner of The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation's 2023 Local Impact Grants Challenge. The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation is granting nearly $2.5 million this year to non-profits strengthening our communities. This prestigious award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to addressing campus hunger and strengthening the communities we serve. (Article in Spanish) Grant awards like this help us achieve our mission by driving o

In the year preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USDA, approximately 35 million Americans, or 10.5 percent of US households, experienced food insecurity. Unfortunately, this number has surged since the pandemic's onset, with estimates suggesting a doubling rate. While food insecurity affects a significant portion of the population, it is crucial to highlight a group that often faces this crisis in silence: college students. Their struggles with food insecurity have m

As the season of giving approaches and the spirit of philanthropy fills the air, many of us are looking for meaningful ways to positively impact the world. One organization that truly stands out on this journey of compassion and generosity is Student LunchBox. Look no further if you're searching for a cause to support this Giving Tuesday. In this blog, we'll delve into why Student LunchBox deserves your attention and how your contributions can help tackle one of the most pres

Giving Tuesday has revolutionized philanthropy, making charitable giving a communal effort for good. These dedicated days, such as the renowned Big Day of Giving, have redefined the landscape of charity, fostering a spirit of generosity that transcends borders. Organizations like Student LunchBox hold these events in high regard as they play a pivotal role in supporting their mission to combat food insecurity. Participating in Giving Tuesday gives individuals a unique opportu

Volunteers are the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, providing essential support and expertise to further their missions. However, attracting and retaining dedicated volunteers can be a challenge. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies and best practices for engaging volunteers and ensuring they feel valued and motivated to continue their meaningful contributions. By implementing these techniques, your nonprofit can build a strong and committed volunteer

Student LunchBox and Cal State LA Summer Distribution GoldenTree Asset Management Joins Forces with Student LunchBox to Bolster Summer Operations and Nourish College Students with Essential Food Deliveries. Los Angeles, July 31 — Student LunchBox, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to combating food insecurity among college students, is thrilled to announce a generous sponsorship from GoldenTree Asset Management ("GoldenTree"). This invaluable funding will enable Stud

Cal State LA and Student LunchBox: Food Distribution Corporate giving has emerged as a transformative force in social impact, reshaping the dynamics of the corporate world. In an era where businesses are not just profit-driven entities but also ethical and responsible stakeholders, the concept of corporate giving has gained significant traction, leaving an indelible mark on society. It is a story of compassion, empathy, and the understanding that businesses hold the potential

Homelessness extends beyond just the visibly unhoused sleeping on streets and in tents. A hidden population experiencing housing insecurity is college students. Many struggle to afford the high costs of living and tuition in cities like Los Angeles while balancing full course loads. Student homelessness is a complex, often invisible issue on campuses across Los Angeles. Scope of Student Homelessness LA Times Report A recent study conducted by UCLA shone a light on the hidden

California State University Los Angeles in Partnership with Student LunchBox: getting ready for a Mobile Market distribution. Food pantries rely on donations from compassionate individuals and organizations to feed those facing hunger and food insecurity in their communities. Many of us want to help by donating food, but is this always the best way to provide support? While non-perishable food drives help stock pantry shelves, direct financial contributions can often make an

Student LunchBox and Volunteers Hunger and Food insecurity are a critical issue that affects millions of individuals and families worldwide. In recent years, the need to address this problem and find sustainable solutions has become increasingly urgent. In this blog post, we will explore community-driven approaches to combating food insecurity, highlighting the importance of collaboration, education, and innovation. By working together, we can create lasting change and ensure

A volunteer is helping to sort through produce to be distributed among families in need. Choosing the right charity to donate to and support is a personal decision that allows you to make a positive impact on causes that align with your values and passions. With countless organizations working towards various goals, it’s essential to take a thoughtful approach to ensure efforts make a difference. This guide will provide practical tips to help you choose the right charity that