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Nationwide initiative focused on reducing food waste and supporting food access for college students
Chartwells Higher Education, a recognized leader in contract foodservice management, is launching “United Through Food,” a new multi-phase initiative designed to help address food insecurity on college campuses while simultaneously making efforts to reduce environmental impact. The program transforms dining locations across the country into hubs of social responsibility by advancing food waste reduction and supporting food access efforts for students in need.
Food insecurity remains a critical challenge for students. According to the 2026 Campus Dining Index (CDI), 56% of students experience challenges accessing food, showing a steady increase year over year. Additionally, 95% of students find reducing food waste through targeted initiatives valuable. United Through Food is one way Chartwells is supporting campuses in addressing this urgent reality.
“Supporting efforts that address food insecurity is not just a goal for us; it is a responsibility,” said Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education. “At its heart, United Through Food is a collective effort to make sure our resources serve those who need them most.”
To maximize its impact, United Through Food is structured around a series of coordinated campaigns, each focused on student food access and sustainability. By aligning these efforts with different periods of the academic year, the initiative ensures ongoing engagement and support for students in need.
The program is built upon three primary pillars:
After tracking Weigh the Waste progress throughout the semester, campuses will create awareness messaging in the lead up to Stop Food Waste Day on April 29. The spring campaign includes a range of other activations, including “Trash Talkers,” or student ambassadors who encourage mindful eating habits, share stats about food waste, and facilitate activities. Additional awareness initiatives include “Taste for Change” sampling to reduce plate waste and encourage exploration, trivia games, and opportunities to involve student groups and community partners.
United Through Food brings campuses across the country together to help address food insecurity and reduce food waste and environmental impact.
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