The Collegiate Hunger Challenge is presented by Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion’s hunger-relief platform, in partnership with North Carolina Campus Engagement, a collaborative network of colleges and universities dedicated to fostering civic and social responsibility among students.
“College students bring an incredible level of energy, creativity, and dedication to this challenge,” said Kevin Durkee, Manager, Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion. “The Collegiate Hunger Challenge tackles food insecurity on campuses and in surrounding communities while empowering students to become advocates and leaders in the fight against hunger.”
At the conclusion of the competition, Food Lion Feeds and North Carolina Campus Engagement will award $25,000 to the top-performing schools. Prizes include a $10,000 grand award and three $5,000 sector prizes recognizing a community college, a four-year public university ,and a four-year independent institution. Since its inception in 2019, the challenge has awarded more than $200,000—equivalent to more than 1.6 million meals*.
Running from Sept. 8, 2025, through Dec. 19, 2025, the competition encourages schools to earn points through a variety of activities designed to fight food insecurity and elevate awareness of the issue. On average, about 13 campuses across North Carolina participate each year, with many schools returning to compete annually. Each campus designates one or two MVP Student Hunger Ambassadors to spearhead its campaign.
“This partnership with Food Lion Feeds has never been more vital,” said Leslie Garvin, Executive Director, North Carolina Campus Engagement. “A recent Feeding America analysis found that food insecurity is on the rise in North Carolina, having reached its highest level in more than 15 years. We are so grateful that the Hunger Challenge helps college students become informed leaders who are taking positive action to end hunger on their campuses and in communities across the state.”
As part of the program, Catawba College has McKenzie Peurifoy, a senior studying Biochemistry and Nutrition, as its MVP Student Hunger Ambassador. McKenzie Peurifoy was chosen for her passion and commitment to supporting the campus community’s Food Resource Center and understanding the impact of food insecurity in our community. She will lead the campaign with guidance from faculty/staff mentors Brooke Magee and Hannah Addair. Participating schools receive marketing resources, an activity fund, and ongoing support throughout the challenge. Upon completion, ambassadors receive a stipend in recognition of their leadership. Individuals interested in supporting the initiative can learn more at https://catawba.edu/hungeralliance/ or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/catawbahungeralliance/
Winners will be announced during a check presentation on Feb. 11, 2026, at the North Carolina Campus Engagement Pathways to Achieving Civic Engagement Conference, hosted at Elon University.
$1 helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America® on behalf of local partner food banks.
About Food Lion
Food Lion is an omnichannel grocery retailer committed to nourishing its neighbors. More than 82,000 associates across 1,100+ stores deliver an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience throughout 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. With a focus on hunger relief, Food Lion is a pioneer in food rescue. Since 2014, the company’s hunger relief platform Food Lion Feeds has donated more than 1.5 billion meals to those who are food insecure. The retailer has committed to donate 3 billion meals by 2032. Founded and based in Salisbury, N.C., since 1957, Food Lion is a company of Ahold Delhaize USA, the U.S. division of Zaandam-based Ahold Delhaize. For more information, visit foodlion.com.
About North Carolina Campus Engagement
North Carolina Campus Engagement is a collaborative network of colleges and universities committed to educating students for civic and social responsibility, partnering with communities for positive change and strengthening democracy. Learn more at nccampusengagement.org
