Dear Editor,

Diablo Valley College should offer and provide all students with free meals without needing to prove that they are unable to afford paying for them. Several students around the world skip meals because their rent, tuition, bills and other payments are too much for their paychecks.

Requiring one to provide paperwork proving they cannot afford a meal can be stressful and discouraging for those seeking help. Food insecurity is not just an issue on our campus but also nationwide.

When students are hungry, they cannot focus in class, resulting in them not participating in or doing well on exams. If DVC truly has a commitment to student success, basic nutrition is an essential step towards that goal.

Providing students with meals without requiring verification would not only reduce, but possibly even eliminate, common stigmas and also create a more supportive and overall better campus. Students already face constant pressure every day; they should not have to deal with hunger as well. A simple, easily accessible meal program would benefit our campus, its community and all students in succeeding.

Sincerely,

Gabriel Elder