The Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU) has launched a new initiative to help university students who may not be able to afford essential items as the cost-of-living soars.
SUBU’s Community Kitchen, which was officially opened this week, is a space where members of the community can donate fresh and unopened non-perishable food items to students in need.
The kitchen area will be open for students to collect food donated by others, discover budget-friendly recipes and make use of the dining space. As well as food items, the Community Kitchen will also provide access to free toiletries and sanitary products.
Gillian Lewis, Community Projects Lead at SUBU, has helped launch the new initiative. She said: “The rising cost of living is impacting us all, and that unfortunately means some of our students are unable to afford the most essential items such as food.
“The launch of our Community Kitchen will provide those students who are facing financial difficulties with easy access to food whilst on campus.
“As a Students’ Union, we are committed to supporting all students during their time at Bournemouth University. Whether it be financial or personal worries, we’re here to help students and signpost them to the help they need.”
One of the first donations for SUBU’s Community Kitchen came from the Community Team based at Tesco Fleetsbridge in Poole.
Emma Davies, Student Opportunities Manager at SUBU, was on hand to collect the donated items. She said: “We are incredibly grateful to the team at Tesco for their donation. These items will help to support those students who are unable to access food due to rising costs.
“Our Community Kitchen runs solely on donations. Whether you can give a little or a lot, every donation will help to feed a student in need.”
If you would like to donate items to SUBU’s Community Kitchen, please call the Students’ Union on 01202 965 765.
Alternatively, you can drop off any fresh or unopened non-perishable food to the Student Centre at Talbot Campus, BH12 5BB.