BUSU first introduced the Food First Program to Brock University in 2016, this program addresses the growing issues of food and health insecurities among Canadian post-secondary students. Food insecurity is a real problem for many students. In 2022/23 alone, BUSU has provided over $47,000 in grocery gift cards to students experiencing food insecurities.
While the Food First program puts grocery gift cards in students’ pockets, BUSU also provides free breakfast on campus, as well as fresh food options throughout the academic year.
"Students often skip breakfast, whether it's due to lack of access, affordability or just rushing in the mornings, many students are missing out on this important start to their day. A good breakfast leads to higher energy levels to help push through an already hectic schedule,” said Carleigh Charlton, Vice-President, University Affairs (VPUA). “Students are already facing the cost of living crisis that many Canadians are worrying about, but with the added financial burdens that often accompanies post-secondary study, this leaves some undergraduate students wondering how they are going to afford their next meal," Charlton continues. "It is our hope to help relieve this stress for as many students as possible, ensure they are starting their day right, and help students thrive and focus on their academics.”
To ease the burden of food insecurity, BUSU will offer the following free food options on campus at various dates throughout the year.
Grab & Go Breakfast
Free Grab & Go Breakfast will be hosted in Union Station each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday during the semester from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. or until supplies last. This three-day event provides student with quick grab-and-go snacks that will include granola bars and fresh fruit.
Free Hot Breakfast
BUSU will be partnering with Brock University departments, as well as local businesses to provide a full, free Hot Breakfast for students. This event will run each month during semester in Union Station beginning at 7:30 a.m. until supplies last.
Food First Fresh Produce Market
BUSU along with the Brock Graduate Student Association and Student life and Success, and in partnership with United Way Niagara Region, will provide students with an affordable way to access fresh produce. Visit the table at the Advocacy Corner (A Block of MacKenzie Chown near entrance to Goodman School of Business on the 3rd floor) from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 26, while quantities last.
Student, staff and the Brock community can fill a basket and purchase fresh produce, at a pay-what-you-can rate. All proceeds will benefit the Food First Program. There will be a limit of one basket per person. This is a cashless Market. Debit and credit will be accepted.
For more information on each of these events, or to learn more about the Food First Program, Visit our event page. Be sure to follow @BrockBUSU on Instagram to stay up to date on all our events, and BUSU support and services.