Nutritional Support

Not many students realize that they may be eligible for a number of local, county, and federal nutritional resources.  Below are a few links to explore for both SMC programs and off-campus resources.
 

• Associated Students Gael Flex Scholarship. In response to the overwhelming student concern regarding food access on campus, the Associated Students created an emergency Gael flex-dollar scholarship program in order to provide emergency grants to students in the form of flex dollars.  In order to be eligible for this $100 scholarship, the applicant must be a full-time undergraduate student, they must be in good academic standing with the College, be in financial need, and have an estimated family contribution (EFC) of $0 - $10,000.  Contact Cesar Ramos, Director of Student Involvement and Leadership, to get more information on the application process.
• Solidarity Supper. Simple meals for any SMC student seeking community and/or could use a good meal because of economic challenges. Bi-monthly dates through the Academic Year. Hosted by the Office of Mission & Ministry.  
• Gael Pantry. Office of Mission and Ministry is proud to finally announce the grand opening of the Saint Mary's GaelPantry! After months of hard work and preparation, the Mission and Ministry Center, along with the generosity of numerous other Saint Mary's groups, is ready to open the first on-campus food pantry.  The GaelPantry will be open mulitiple days a week beginning on October 12th.  
• Meal Plans for Independent Students. Supported by Sodexo and their Stop Hunger program, Saint Mary's identifies independent students (emancipated, former foster care, orphaned, or in a legal guardianship) with no supplemental support and offers meal plan support.  It is coordinated through the Financial Aid Office to protect the privacy of the student.  If you are interested in more information, please contact Jane Camarillo (jc11@stmarys-ca.edu).
• CalFresh. Did you know that students are eligible for the CalFresh federally-funded program?  Check out this link to find more information about this aid to supporting low-income individuals. 
• Monument Crisis Center community-based non-profit family resource center that offers nutritious food, quality resources and referrals to low-income individuals and families in order to help them become stable and secure in the community.  
• North Creek Church Food Pantry.  North Creek Church located in Walnut Creek, provides food to those in need in the San Francisco Bay area donated by the North Creek Church body.   
• Alameda County Community Food Bank.  Here is another local resource for those who would prefer to access an off-campus food source.