World Food Movement (WFM) has marked the first anniversary of its campus feeding initiative, celebrating a milestone of 70,000 meals served to college students across the United States. The organisation commemorated the occasion at its annual gala at Princeton Farms & Preserves in Skillman, New Jersey, bringing together college leaders, philanthropists, business executives, donors and students.
Launched in September 2025, the initiative aims to address food insecurity among college students by providing access to nutritious meals. During the event, Sri Shuklambhara Dasa, President of World Food Movement New Jersey, reflected on the organisation’s founding and its inspiration in Srila Prabhupada’s vision of a world where no one goes hungry.
Dr Timothy G. Lynch, President of the College of Staten Island at the City University of New York, highlighted the programme’s impact on his campus, emphasising the importance of providing meals free of charge while preserving students’ dignity. He noted that food pantry usage at the college had increased from a few hundred students to approximately 2,500 over three years.
Bhavani Parameswar, President of Indivate, part of the ITC group, highlighted the universal nature of compassion, noting how an initiative inspired by India is now supporting students in the United States.
World Food Movement USA Executive Director Naveena Neerada Dasa outlined the organisation’s approach, drawing on leadership experience from Akshaya Patra, which serves approximately 2.35 million meals daily in India. He also discussed plans to expand campus partnerships and reach more students experiencing food insecurity.
Keynote speaker Deepak Raj, Chair of the India Philanthropy Alliance and Pratham USA, encouraged attendees to strengthen their philanthropic engagement and contribute to causes benefiting both their ancestral homeland and the communities in which they live.
A fireside chat moderated by Pradnya Haldipur, Strategic Advisor to World Food Movement, featured Leanne Maldonado, a recent College of Staten Island graduate. Maldonado shared how the programme supported her during her studies while she balanced work and raising two children, illustrating the importance of reliable food assistance for students managing multiple responsibilities.
The evening concluded with dinner and a performance by Carnatic fusion artist Hrishi, celebrating the organisation’s achievements and reaffirming its commitment to addressing student hunger.
Having served 70,000 meals in its first year, World Food Movement plans to expand its college partnerships from five to 10 campuses across New Jersey and New York in 2027. The organisation aims to strengthen food assistance for students and ensure that financial hardship and hunger do not become barriers to pursuing higher education.
