SAN DIEGO –– Nearly half of community college students in San Diego and Imperial counties experience food insecurity, a challenge that can impact their health, academic performance, and ability to complete their education. To help address this growing need, Cal Coast Credit Union, in partnership with the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and local community colleges, is launching its eighth annual Pack the Pantry virtual food drive through Oct. 31, 2026.
Every dollar donated helps provide two meals, and Cal Coast will match donations up to $7,500. The fundraiser will support campus food pantries serving community college students across San Diego and Imperial counties. These pantries and nutrition centers provide essential basic resources that help students stay focused on their education and path toward graduation.
Community members can support the effort by donating online at www.calcoastcu.org/packthepantry . Donors may also make their gift in honor of a participating college food pantry, creating meaningful support for the students and campuses that matter most to them.
Cal Coast President and CEO Todd Lane said, “Hunger has become an increasingly common barrier to student success. Access to a stocked campus pantry can provide more than a meal. It can provide stability, peace of mind, and the support students need to stay on track academically. We encourage our community to join us in making a difference for local students.”
Since 2016, Pack the Pantry has helped provide more than 100,000 meals to community college students throughout San Diego and Imperial counties, helping ensure students have access to nutritious food while pursuing their educational goals.
Dr. Lynn Neault, President of the San Diego and Imperial Counties Community Colleges Association (SDICCCA) and chancellor of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, said, “The importance of programs like Pack the Pantry cannot be understated. Our community college students are balancing work, and caring for their families and loved ones while pursuing their educational goals. When basic needs are met, their ability to focus and stay in school increases. Programs like Pack the Pantry help remove barriers and provide students with the support they need to stay enrolled, persist, and succeed.”
San Diego Food Bank CEO Casey Castillo shared, “No student should have to navigate hunger while working toward a college degree. Access to nutritious food helps students stay healthy, focused and engaged in their studies. Through Pack the Pantry, we’re proud to partner with Cal Coast and our local community colleges to ensure students have the support they need to continue pursuing their goals.”
At the conclusion of the campaign, the San Diego Food Bank will coordinate the purchase and distribution of food to participating community colleges, helping ensure donations directly support students experiencing food insecurity.
