Walt Disney World has awarded a $100,000 grant to Valencia College for its VCentials markets, a vital initiative that aims to combat food insecurity among students.
VCentials provides students with free access to healthy, nutritious food and essential items in a welcoming, store-like environment. The program has already made a significant impact, with students visiting the markets more than 50,000 times since VCentials was launched in 2023. Today, there are VCential locations on every campus.
“We’ve all experienced how difficult it is to concentrate when we’re hungry,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College. “This generous donation from Walt Disney World will ensure that more students can focus on their education without the burden of food insecurity.”
“Being part of this community for over 50 years, we always look for local organizations that are doing great work and identify where we can best help,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “This program at Valencia is making a huge difference for students in need, and we’re proud that we can continue helping the college do that through this donation.”
Grant funds will be used to purchase food to stock the markets, including fresh produce, refrigerated items, canned goods, snacks and other staples. This is Disney’s second donation to VCentials, following a $50,000 contribution in 2023 for food and operational expenses.
VCentials is part of Valencia College’s broader commitment to affordability and holistic student support, which includes childcare assistance and free access to the Lynx bus service. More than 50 percent of Valencia students are first-generation college students. Most balance work and family responsibilities while pursuing their studies, and 40 percent report having skipped meals due to financial challenges. By providing these support services, the college aims to remove barriers to academic persistence and success.
Donations can be made online at Valencia.org/donate. Please select “VCentials” under “Designation” to make a financial contribution.