Located right in the heart of the Students’ Union Hub, the Food Pantry is your one-stop-shop for short-term food assistance.
Being a uni student is tough – even without throwing money into the mix. So, with the cost-of-living crisis, I know that things are hitting everyone’s pockets on campus harder.
At the Students’ Union, we’ve got your back.
That’s why we’ve set up the Students’ Union Food Pantry and BLSA Food Pantry, to help you through those moments when the bank balance is running low.
The backstory
The Mile End QMSU Food Pantry was founded in 2023 by Jojo Croft (Vice-President Welfare 2022/23) and supported by Adi Sawalha (President 2021/23).
Last year, as part of my efforts to tackle the cost-of-living crisis on campus, I worked with the Students’ Union to secure new funds from the University to improve the Food Pantry so that it’s a more reliable service. Our services have also expanded to make sure even more students can benefit. This year, many sabbatical officers worked together to launch another food pantry on our Whitechapel Campus.
So, what exactly is the Food Pantry?
With one located right in the heart of the Students’ Union Hub and the other next to the Garrod Recovery Rooms, the Food Pantry is your one-stop-shop for short-term food assistance.
Open to all students, we’ve designed it to be as accessible as possible and so we don’t ask any questions – just turn up and take what you need.
Fair Usage Policy
Now, let's talk about fairness.
We want all students to be able to access the service equally. That’s why the Food Pantry operates under a fair usage policy, meaning we encourage you to take what you need but be mindful of your fellow students.
To go into more detail, you can take one of each food item unless otherwise stated. You’ll find signs in the pantry letting you know!
When can it be accessed?
The service is open during Students’ Union Hub opening hours, which outside of holiday periods are typically Monday to Friday, 9am – 8:45pm. There are times where it may be briefly closed for maintenance – please speak to reception about when it will reopen.
The Garrod building is open 24/7.
Need further support?
While the Food Pantry is a help for those immediate needs, it's not meant to replace long-term support. The Students’ Union and the University are here to help you navigate any financial challenges or wellbeing concerns.
For longer term financial help please check out the Financial Assistance Fund.
You may want to arrange a confidential appointment with a Welfare Adviser in the Advice and Counselling Service, to discuss your circumstances and options further.
Other ways to get short term food support
Although we try to stock the Food Pantry with an assortment of items, we’re aware it doesn’t have it all. You may be able to obtain a supermarket voucher from the University or QMSU if your funds are low, you are in immediate financial difficulty and you unable to afford to buy food, toiletries or other essential items. This can be used at several dedicated supermarket stores.
A voucher is normally for £25. Find out more here.
If you need non-financial help...
Other wellbeing support is available for you to use. You can find out more about further support services at https://www.qmsu.org/advice/.
- Tahmid Khan, President