Founded in 2000, the purpose of the Hunger Center was to address the problem of hunger and food security in Rhode Island and beyond. While most well known for the SNAP Outreach Project, the work of the Hunger Center extends well beyond this project with a focus on protecting the well-being of low-income Rhode Islanders through a variety of activities. Hunger Center staff and students have been actively involved in campus, local, state, and national efforts to address the causes and consequences of food insecurity as well as develop solutions to food insecurity through education, advocacy, and policy initiatives.

What is Food Security? Food security is defined as access by all people at all times for enough food for an active and healthy life (usda.gov). Food insecurity is defined as the uncertain availability of adequate and safe foods or the inability to acquire such food in socially acceptable ways. Food security at a minimum requires enough food (quantity) and nutritious food (quality) to ensure an adequate and healthy diet. Food insecurity is associated with a wide range of adverse physical, mental, and academic outcomes.

Hunger Center staff work closely with numerous organizations throughout RI to address the needs of low-income households. They work closely with administrators at the Department of Human Services to address issues around statewide policy and administration of SNAP. Hunger Center staff share their expertise with state and community colleagues by serving on local advisory councils as well as national and regional advocacy groups. They also collaborate with many community partners and stay abreast of local events as participants of several local community initiatives. Staff offer expert testimony at the RI General Assembly when issues of public benefits and poverty are being debated.

Staff at the Hunger Center develop materials and frequently make presentations to local civic groups, social service agencies, and faith-based communities to assist them in learning more about the issue of hunger in their community.