By Florence Robert
As the cost of living continues to rise, access to affordable groceries has become an increasing struggle for post-secondary students. Between having to pay for rent, tuition, groceries and other living expenses, students are often left choosing between basic needs and the heavy demands of university life.
A February 2025 survey conducted by Équiterre, a non-profit environmental organization, found that 44 per cent of students across six Quebec colleges experienced some form of food insecurity. The high prices of groceries are not the only problem. Limited time between classes and work, lack of cooking equipment and stigmas surrounding financial insecurity all contribute to food insecurity.
Photo courtesy of Florence Robert
At Bishop’s, the Community Cupboard offers a resource for both Bishop’s and Champlain students experiencing food insecurity, providing access to groceries, toiletries and other essential items. Students do not need to provide proof of financial need to order, and can place up to four orders a semester with up to 75 items each.
Amaiya Freeman, a Team Lead and Coordinator of the Community Cupboard who has worked with the service for the past two years, has seen an increase in the use of both the Cupboard and the thrift store.
Between 2023 and 2026, the Community Cupboard recorded 457 orders from 265 students. Freeman mentioned that more Champlain students have begun accessing it this year. “There is not only an increase in demand, but there is also an increase in awareness of this resource on campus that is contributing to these higher numbers,” Freeman said.
The Community Cupboard shares the same space as the on-campus thrift store, whose profits directly fund the Cupboard. The store also allows for the campus community to contribute, alongside donations of food and clothing.
The discreet ordering system is important in addressing the stigma that can accompany food insecurity. Students experiencing financial difficulties can hesitate to access resources due to worries about judgment or the perception of others. To make an order, students simply fill out the online form to pick which items they need. Orders are prepared for pickup within 48 hours of ordering and can be collected at Norton 100 with a student ID.
“Everyone needs to eat. We’re very approachable, so don’t be afraid to come to us if you need help. We are here for you through a simple process with no judgement,” she said. As food insecurity continues to affect post-secondary students across Quebec, campus initiatives like the Community Cupboard demonstrate the importance of accessible resources in supporting students’ basic needs. Systems like these help address issues that would otherwise remain unanswered within university communities.
