Since 2018, we’ve been deeply honored to work alongside the Oregon Student Association (OSA) in addressing the urgent issue of college food and basic needs insecurities across our state. OSA’s tireless efforts, advocacy, and leadership have been instrumental in raising awareness, driving policy change, and supporting student-centered campaigns. Together, we have worked on initiatives to ensure that no student goes hungry—fighting for solutions that put food on the table and give students the support they deserve. 

The dissolution of OSA will leave a massive gap in Oregon’s student advocacy landscape. For years, they amplified student voices, empowered leaders, and advocated for systemic change. The loss of their organization is felt not just by students, but by all who have been champions of the rights and needs of students of higher education. Their dissolution represents the end of an era, but their legacy of student empowerment lives on.

In the face of this loss, we are more committed than ever to carrying this work forward. The challenges that we fought to overcome are far from resolved, and the need for policy solutions remains as pressing as ever. Nearly 3 in 5 college students are facing basic needs insecurity including food insecurity, housing insecurity and homelessness and Oregon is ranked 44th in the nation in funding its public universities. 

As we look ahead to 2025, we will continue this work by leading the Student Basic Needs and Workforce Stabilization Act, ensuring that it crosses the finish line and becomes law. This legislation is crucial to addressing the barriers that prevent students – our future workforce – from succeeding academically and personally. 

While we will dearly miss the partnership of OSA, we are energized to continue this fight. We remain dedicated to pushing for equitable access to food and resources for all students in Oregon. Our work will continue to build on this strong foundation, and we invite others in the community to join us in making sure this fight is won—not just in 2025, but beyond.

Together, we can create a future where no student has to choose between paying for rent, textbooks or a meal.

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