Nourishing bodies and minds Student Food Pantry

No student should have to choose between their education and their next meal. Food insecurity affects 40% of students on Australian university campuses, forcing them to sacrifice nutrition and negatively impacting their mental health, academic performance and overall wellbeing.

At Charles Sturt University, we believe that no student should have to choose between their education and their next meal. Our Student Food Pantry is a vital resource that provides essential food staples to students in need, ensuring they can focus on their studies without the burden of food insecurity.

Food insecurity significantly affects students’ academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. Students facing food insecurity are more likely to experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, which can hinder their ability to concentrate and succeed academically.

A recent survey revealed that many of our students live on a food budget of just $50-$80 per week. This limited budget often means students have to make tough choices, sacrificing nutrition and well-being to make ends meet. International students are especially at risk, having no access to commonwealth supported programs they can easily be left behind in poverty.

The Student Food Pantry helps bridge this gap by offering free, nutritious food to those who need it most.

How The Student Food Pantry Works

  • Location and Hours: The pantry is conveniently located on campus and is open multiple days a week to accommodate students’ schedules.
  • Variety of Food: We strive to provide a range of food items, including fresh produce (available on some campuses only), non-perishable goods, and essential staples like rice, pasta, and canned vegetables.
  • Sustainability: We encourage students to bring their own containers and bags to reduce single-use plastics and promote sustainability.

There was constant financial stress in my life before the Student Food Pantry opened. I am extremely grateful for this service which has helped me reduce stress and eat healthy foods.

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By supporting the Student Food Pantry, you are directly contributing to the well-being and success of our students. Your donations help us stock the pantry with a variety of nutritious foods, ensuring that no student goes hungry. Every dollar makes a difference:

  • $10: Provides a week’s worth of essential staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods, ensuring students have the basic ingredients for nutritious meals.
  • $20: Supplies a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables for a week, boosting students’ health and energy levels.
  • $35: Covers the cost of a balanced meal plan for a student for a week, including proteins, grains, and fresh produce.
  • $50: Introduces specialty items and diverse food options, such as dairy products, whole grains, and lean meats, enhancing students’ dietary variety.
  • $100: Ensures a student has access to three balanced meals a day for an entire month, significantly reducing food insecurity and stress.

Your generosity ensures that our students can thrive academically and personally.

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