A Yorkshire University have launched a food larder for struggling students. It offers free food and essentials during the cost of living crisis.
Struggling students studying at York St John will be given access to free food and other essentials from the YSJ Larder. The effort comes as food and energy bills are on the increase meaning many are left unable to afford essentials. Though the larder scheme is set up for those struggling the most. YSJ has said that all students of the Yorkshire university can use the scheme to access free food.
The York St John Free Food Larder Scheme
Items offered at the larder are non-perishable food items, toiletries, household products and sanitary products. There is also the opportunity to get gift cards for local supermarkets so students can purchase items not available at the larder.
The scheme adds to financial aid already implemented by the university to help in the cost of living crisis. The university has already reduced the cost of food on the campus, subsided fees for clubs and societies and increased their student support fund.
The chief operating officer of the university spoke to the BBC about the scheme:
“Rising inflation and interest rates are affecting living costs for everyone and students are particularly impacted.”
Students who use the larder are welcome to take 10 items away with them and a gift card to help with their shopping. All they need to do is show a valid student ID card upon entry. However, you can also visit once a week.
“The University has invested significantly in an increased range and quantity of supplies. All students facing cost-of-living challenges are welcome and encouraged to bring a bag to pick up to 10 items and a supermarket gift card to access fresh produce.”
When Can St John University Students Access The Free Food?
The Yorkshire university offers free food 3 days a week, with the larder being open for 3 hours at a time. Here is the full schedule:
Monday: 12.00-15.00
Wednesday: 09.00-12.00
Friday: 10.00-13.00
The larder can be found at Holgate building in the middle of the university’s campus. Currently, it is not open at the weekends.
The student finance funding team leader spoke of the importance of accessibility for its students:
“We want our students to be able to access food and essentials when they need it most.”
The scheme comes in as many UK universities have already or plan to provide additional aid for struggling students. Often, students are overlooked during the cost-of-living crisis and it is down to the individual universities to cater for their students.
If you are struggling, please seek advice from your university and loved ones.
