November 18, 2014

The Honorable Nancy Skinner

California Assembly Member
State Capitol, Room 6026
Sacramento, CA 94249
(916) 319-2015

AB 1930: SUPPORT

Dear Senator Skinner:

I am writing to you on behalf of all Foods and Nutrition and dietetic students at San Diego State
University. We wish to advocate proper health and nutrition for all populations, especially fellow
college students. We would like to express our support for AB 1930, which will allow college
students to obtain eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), more
commonly known as CalFresh in California. AB 1930 is important to help lowincome college
students that may be experiencing financial issues as it has a great potential to combat incidences
of hunger.
The countrys rising obesity rate has resulted in an increased focus on targeting specific high-risk
audiences. Due to a shift in unhealthy eating habits, more instances of physical inactivity, and a
higher likelihood of stress, college students are found to be more susceptible to
overweight/obesity. As a result, efforts to cease the Freshman 15 are present in various
campuses throughout the United States. Because of the numerous efforts to combat obesity on
college campuses, the reality that there are also college students that may not be eating more than
they should is often overlooked. With a lack of school funding resulting in higher student fees,
students are left to face these financial difficulties while juggling other stressful situations
regarding school itself, work, and social issues. These economic hardships make health and
eating in general much more difficult to focus on. It was reported that the United States
graduating class of 2014 is faced with an average student-loan debt of $33,000. In conjunction
with the vast amount that has already been spent on student fees, students are faced with
expenses that may come first before feeding themselves.
The prevalence of hunger on college campuses is starting to garner more attention as concerned
citizens are starting to take action. For example, the State University of New York at Stony
Brook provides a food pantry where students are able to obtain food staples if their funds are low
and their means to obtain food are becoming difficult. What better way to fight hunger on
college campuses by allowing college students to become eligible for certain programs?
By passing AB 1930, California can help alleviate the financial hardships many college students
face today. By providing eligibility for SNAP/CalFresh, proper health and nutrition can be an
available pathway for anyone.
Sincerely,
Ilyn Mendoza
Foods and Nutrition DPD Student, San Diego State University