Birkbeck Students' Union Food Pantry: Providing Essential Support to Our Student Community

What is the Food Pantry and Who Does It Help?

The Birkbeck Students' Union Food Pantry is a monthly initiative designed to support students who are facing financial hardship and food insecurity. This program provides a range of essential non-perishable food items and basic necessities to students who need them. Our goal is to ensure that no student goes without the essentials, particularly during difficult times when balancing academic commitments with rising living costs can be overwhelming.

Financial strain is a reality for many students, especially with increasing rent, utility bills, and other living expenses. Often, these pressures leave little room for discretionary spending, including groceries and hygiene products. The Birkbeck Food Pantry was established to help alleviate this burden, offering a source of relief and support for students who may be struggling to make ends meet.

By offering non-perishable food items and household essentials at no cost, we aim to foster a supportive community where students can focus on their studies without the constant worry of affording basic necessities. Our Food Pantry is a confidential, student-centred service available to all those who need it.

How You Can Help: Donation Opportunities

We rely on our own funding and the generosity of our community to keep the Food Pantry stocked. Your donations can make a real difference in the lives of students. We are currently accepting non-perishable food items and hygiene products, including but not limited to:
Food items: Canned goods, dry pasta, rice, lentils, long-life milk, cereal, and other items with extended shelf lives
Household essentials: Cleaning products, personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, body wash, sanitary products, and washing-up liquid
Please ensure that all donated items are unopened, in good condition, and have a long expiration date. Every donation, big or small, plays a crucial role in supporting students in need.

Interested in Volunteering or Donating?

There are several ways you can get involved in supporting the Food Pantry:
Donate Non-Perishable Items: Donation points are available near the SU office and the Vice-Chancellor’s corridor, with additional collection points planned for other areas across campus. Items such as canned foods, rice, pasta, and hygiene products are always in high demand.
Make a Larger Contribution: If you are part of an organization or business interested in making a larger donation or forming a partnership with us, we encourage you to reach out directly. Your support can help us expand the program and reach even more students in need.
Volunteer Your Time: We’re always looking for dedicated volunteers to help with sorting donations, organizing distribution days, and spreading awareness. Volunteering is a rewarding way to get involved and make a tangible difference in our community. If you’re interested in joining the volunteer team, please contact us for more information.

Spreading Awareness!

One of the simplest but most impactful ways to help is by raising awareness of the Food Pantry. Share this initiative with friends, classmates, colleagues, and on social media. The more people who know about the Food Pantry, the more students we can assist. Whether through word-of-mouth or social media, your efforts to spread the word will help create a stronger, more informed community.

Food Pantry Schedule: Mark Your Calendars

Our Food Pantry sessions are held on the third Tuesday of each month. Students can collect items during these designated dates:

October 15th
November 19th
December 17th

Please note that the pantry is open to all students, no questions asked, and everything is provided free of charge. However, you will need to bring your student ID. We understand that financial struggles can affect anyone, and we want to ensure that students have a reliable place to turn when they need assistance.

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Birkbeck Students' Union, we believe in the power of community. The Food Pantry is more than just a resource—it’s a symbol of our collective commitment to supporting one another during times of need. No student should have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. By working together, we can provide vital resources, reduce the stigma around food insecurity, and ensure that all members of our student community are cared for.

Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply sharing information about this initiative, your contribution matters. Together, we can create a positive and lasting impact in the lives of students who need it most.

For more information, to volunteer, or to make a larger donation, please contact the Birkbeck Students’ Union. Let’s unite in solidarity and show the power of compassion.

This page and project is proudly led by William Sarenden.