USDA Summer Food Service Program Benefits Academically and Financially Eligible MCC EOP Students
July 3, 2023
Program ensures students have access to nutritious meals and stay focused on learning
BRIGHTON, N.Y. – This summer, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plans to serve more than 200 million free meals to children at approved Summer Food Service Program sites, including Monroe Community College. Thanks to support from a $19,519 USDA grant, approximately 50 participants in the Educational Opportunity Program’s Pre-freshman Bridge Program will receive nutritious meals from July 9 through Aug. 4, 2023, at the Brighton Campus.
In its ninth year, the EOP’s Pre-freshman Bridge is a grant-funded residential program serving the needs of full-time, first-time MCC students who are academically and economically eligible to help them with their transition to college. The bridge program introduces students to the college environment and promotes social engagement and team building.
Over four weeks, students learn to adjust to college life and improve their mathematics, writing and critical thinking skills while completing a credit-bearing College Orientation and Success Strategies course. They also gain career awareness and cultural enrichment that will strengthen their chance for success. Counseling and tutorial services along with instruction in technology, financial literacy, and participation in a civic service project are provided. The bridge program puts students on the path to academic and personal success despite struggles that may have impacted their growth.
To participate in the Pre-freshman Bridge Program, students must meet academic and financial requirements. This year, the bridge program begins Sunday, July 9, and continues through Friday, Aug. 4, on the Brighton Campus. Participants will stay in the residence halls on campus and receive three meals a day made possible by the grant.
MCC has seen an uptick in the EOP student population over the past two years. While overall student enrollment at the college has declined, the proportion of EOP students has increased. The most recent data available show that MCC served 148 EOP students in spring 2023, a 14.7 percent year-to-year increase. In fall 2022, 156 students participated in the EOP.
For more information, contact the EOP Office at 585-292-2028 or eopoffice@monroecc.edu.