Foodbank stocks get student boost

UCOL's foodbank is overflowing with cans after students shed their hair for food.

The student association food bank opened 12 months ago as increasing numbers of hungry students asked for help.

Students shaved their heads and legs in exchange for food donations yesterday, adding a few hundred cans to the store of thousands.

Growing numbers of students are accessing the foodbank and hardship grants due to the recession and greater awareness of the services offered on campus, student president Jo Hymers said.

Families seem to be hardest hit, with three-quarters of those seeking food having children, she said. "Students come in and see me and talk to me about hardship – all they want is food. If students are really hungry we can open a can and give them some soup."

The student hardship fund more than doubled this year – from $1500 to $3500 – to meet growing demand from cash-strapped students.

"A lot more people used it last year, and a lot of them are returning and spreading the word," Ms Hymers said.

Students can receive $50 to $200 for unexpected costs, such as medical, rent or power bills.

The student association pays student bills or provides vouchers rather than dishing out cash.

Hard-up students are also referred to budgeting advice services.

"I don't just give them the hardship fund, but try and resolve their issues," Ms Hymers said.

Plans are under way to release a recipe book using foodbank ingredients.

- © Fairfax NZ News