The World Food Movement (WFM) marked the first anniversary of its campus feeding initiative at its annual gala on October 10, 2026, in Skillman, New Jersey, highlighting its work addressing student food insecurity and plans to expand its college partnerships.
Held at Princeton Farms & Preserves, the event brought together college presidents, business leaders, philanthropists, donors, and students, according to a WFM press statement.
Launched in September 2025, the initiative provides nutritious meals to college students facing food insecurity in the United States. WFM reported that it has served 70,000 meals nationwide and aims to increase its campus partnerships from five to 10 across New Jersey and New York in 2027.
Welcoming attendees, WFM New Jersey President Sri Shuklambhara Dasa discussed the organization’s founding in 2025 and its inspiration in Srila Prabhupada’s vision of a world without hunger.
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Dr. Timothy G. Lynch, president of the College of Staten Island (CSI), part of the City University of New York, discussed the program’s role on his campus and emphasized the importance of offering meals that are “free, yet with dignity.” He said the number of students using CSI’s food pantry had increased from a few hundred to approximately 2,500 over three years.
Bhavani Parameswar, president of Indivate, part of the ITC Group, spoke about compassion extending across borders, noting that an initiative rooted in India was now helping feed students in the United States.
Sri Naveena Neerada Dasa, executive director of World Food Movement USA, outlined the initiative’s approach and expansion plans. According to the statement, he said the model draws on its leaders’ 25 years of experience with Akshaya Patra, which serves 2.35 million meals daily in India. He also discussed efforts to establish additional 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 broaden their charitable support. He urged them to contribute to their Karma Bhoomi, the country where they live and work, alongside their Matru Bhoomi, their homeland.
During a fireside conversation moderated by WFM strategic adviser Pradnya Haldipur, recent CSI graduate Leanne Maldonado described how the program supported her while she pursued her studies as a working mother of two.
The evening concluded with dinner and a performance by Carnatic fusion artist Hrishi.
