Food insecurity is one of the fastest-growing concerns on post-secondary campuses in Canada, and our campus is no exception. National surveys show that nearly 40% of post-secondary students experience some form of food insecurity, skipping meals, eating less, or worrying about running out of food. Rising tuition, housing costs, and inflation mean that even working students are now turning to food support programs for help. At Waterloo, we are seeing a growing trend of both students and employees relying on these supports.
Food insecurity does not exist in isolation, it intersects with systemic barriers linked to race, class, disability, gender, and migration status. Racialized, Indigenous, international, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities are often disproportionately impacted due to historical and ongoing inequities in income, employment, and access to resources. Addressing food insecurity, therefore, is not only a matter of wellness it is a matter of equity and anti-racism.
Food insecurity has been normalized as a part of “student life” but it impacts far more than hunger. It affects mental health, academic focus, and sense of belonging, especially for those already navigating systemic exclusion. For employees, it can compound financial strain and undermine well-being in the workplace.
The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA)’s Food Support Service (FSS) has seen a sharp increase in usage over the past year, distributing hundreds of hampers each term to meet rising demand. The service provides confidential access to food hampers, offering options that reflect diverse dietary and cultural needs. On October 10th, WUSA also launched a Pay-What-You Can-Program helping to reduce stigma and make nutritious meals more accessible to all.
Food insecurity impacts us all. I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can affect one’s ability to learn, work, and belong. The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism take this seriously and are committed to supporting efforts like Food Support Services.
Office of EDI-R volunteers at WUSA Food Support Services.
How You Can Help:
- Donate – Donate online or drop-off non-perishable items to the donation bins located across campus.
- Stock the Bank – Rally your team and help Food Support Services Stock the Bank from October 1-31st.
- Raise Awareness – Share information, encourage donations, and help reduce stigma so those in need know where to turn.
Food insecurity is an equity issue that calls us to act collectively. When we do, we help ensure that everyone at Waterloo can access the basic resources they need to thrive.