With the cost of living continuing to put pressure on students, FUSA Student Council has developed a new program, the FUSA Food Pantry. The goal of this project? Making it easier to access free food and essential personal care items across Flinders campuses.

The pantry was spearheaded by FUSA’s Environment Officer, Welfare Officer and Student President as a practical way to provide more students with access to essential items.

The idea also builds on the work of the Oasis Community Market, a fantastic existing service based at Bedford Park. With students studying across multiple campuses, the Food Pantry creates more opportunities for students at other locations to access free food and essential items.

Speaking to FUSA Environment Officer Madeline King, they said, “I noticed that while the Oasis Market is a fantastic resource, it isn’t accessible to every student across campuses and schedules. I wanted to open more opportunities for students to access free food at different locations and times.”

Student feedback also helped shape the idea, with students raising the need for more opportunities to access affordable food across campuses.

A key part of the pantry is keeping access simple and private. There is no appointment or application process. Students can visit during opening hours, take what they need and leave.

“Even though there should be no shame in using Flinders services, we know that many students are a little uncomfortable or shy when it comes to engaging with support services, so we made the process discreet,” Madeline said.

They also reiterated that everyone is welcome: “Everyone is struggling under the cost of living at the moment, so please visit a Pantry.”

The FUSA Food Pantry is available at the libraries at Sturt, Tonsley, FMC and City campuses, with cupboards open on Tuesdays during term time from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

Pantries are also available to students at Darwin, Riverland and Mount Gambier, managed by staff at those locations. Opening days and times vary, so students should check the FUSA Food Pantry webpage for current details and exact locations.

Items vary depending on availability, but generally include staple non-perishable foods such as long-life milk, rice, pasta, noodles, canned goods and cereal, as well as toiletries and personal hygiene products.

Students experiencing greater financial pressure can also access other FUSA support, including emergency financial assistance, loans and financial counselling.