On Mondays from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, The Owl’s Nest at Foothill College offers Hot Meals through a program run by the World Food Movement. Students lined up at a booth in front of the Owls Nest resource center to receive meals while staff gave them instructions on how to sign up and receive 1 of the 125 limited meals, the food being served that day being pasta.  

For many students, resources like these can help reduce stress and allow them to focus more on their education. “Hot meals are important because they keep us fed when we need them,” said May, a student who attended the event. “If we don’t have to worry about food, we can do better in school.” 

Not all students have the same resources and access to food, especially hot meals, nor do they not have time to cook. As such, they end up having whatever is accessible to them, which is usually junk food. 

At the end of the day, by helping to meet basic needs,students are allowed to focus on their academics instead of survival. Students are busy working, doing homework, preparing for exams, taking the bus, which is very time consuming. Thanks to this program, we get to give students get one less thing to worry about. “More people should know about the hot meals; they are delicious, and it is an amazing thing to go to with friends. Who does not like good free food and good company?” Said May with a smile.

Even though the program is helpful, not all students may be aware that it exists. Increasing visibility to programs like Hot Meals could help more students take advantage of the resources available to them. Staff member Israel recommended following their Instagram account at the Owls Nest so you can get updates anytime on their most recent events. Also you can check on the Foothill website as well.