The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN)
Hunger & Homelessness Support Network
The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN) is an interdisciplinary, cross-campus
initiative based in the College of Health that works to develop sustainable solutions
for UAA students facing food and housing insecurity. Our research team conducted multiple
campus-wide surveys to identify economic barriers that impact students' well-being and education.
Results of our initial (published) survey found:
8.3% of UAA students have experienced homelessness at some point while being a student.
44% of UAA students experienced food insecurity during the school year.
30% of UAA students experience housing insecurity and couldn’t afford to stay in their
current place of residence, even if they wanted to.
A follow up (unpublished) survey was conducted in November 2018 and found:
10.4% of UAA students have experienced homelessness
37% of UAA students don’t know if they can pay rent next month
Financial insecurity negatively impacts education and delays program completion for
46% UAA students
UAA employees, students and community programs provide services to help students get
what they need so they can focus on their education.
Tara Schmidt is an alumna of the Division of Population Health Sciences Master of Public Health program. In this spotlight, she reflects on how her time at UAA shaped her career path—from the relationships that opened doors and guided her forward to the unexpected milestones.
In January 2026, students from the College of Health showcased their public health research at the Alaska Public Health Association Summit’s annual poster session. Their projects spanned topics ranging from food security to environmental contamination, contributing valuable insights that help shape the evolving conversation around Alaska’s public health landscape.
From campus food pantries to statewide health initiatives, Keely Livingston is turning passion into purpose. Keely’s journey into public health began with hands-on work in food security during her undergrad years at Montana State and led her to enroll in UAA's Master of Public Health Program.
Over the course of 18 months, Fulbright Arctic Initiative Scholar and public health practice alumna Mariah Seater will be traveling to Iceland to research family justice centers in the Arctic with the hopes of applying her findings to Alaska communities.