Many people are aware of the food insecurity crisis across America, however, not everyone knows the numbers associated with the issue. After conducting research on hunger and viewing statistics in New Jersey, I wondered how much my peers at The College of New Jersey truly knew about food insecurity. I asked three students to answer two questions to the best of their ability: 1 in __ people in New Jersey struggle with food insecurity, and what percentage of Mercer County is food insecure?

I spoke with Samantha Ciparis, a junior at TCNJ studying deaf and hard of hearing education, who estimated that 1 in 3 people in New Jersey and 86% of Mercer County struggled with hunger. Samantha has volunteered at food banks by her hometown of Red Bank in the past, and mentioned the importance of helping others and applauded the positive influence food banks make for members of their community.

Of the three students I interviewed, the second student came the closest in her estimation. Cydney Guito, a junior at TCNJ studying Communications estimated that 1 in 5 people in New Jersey and 50% of Mercer County were influenced by hunger.

The third student interviewed, Mia Volpe, also a junior at TCNJ studying deaf and hard of hearing education, estimated 1 out of 4 people living in New Jersey and 55% of Mercer were food insecure.

The correct numbers are 1 in 7 people in New Jersey and 12% of Mercer County.

When I revealed the answers, many of the subjects were surprised by their overestimations. Mia Volpe said, “I’m happy it’s less than what I thought. Anything over 1% is too much, so hopefully that number goes down even more.” I think many people would agree with this sentiment, and through raising awareness on the issue and inspiring others to take action, It is my hope that we will be able to lower these numbers.

So how do these answers reflect TCNJ students knowledge of food insecurity in our area? The findings seem to reflect that students know there is an issue, but believe the numbers are more severe than they actually are. Food insecurity is a serious issue that influences the lives of our neighbors on a daily basis—but the issue is not so far gone that we cannot intervene. Through continued volunteering and advocacy, we may make a difference in our community and combat hunger in the garden state.

**Statistical information found here