Every week, the uOttawa food bank shelves are stocked with fresh produce, pasta, cereal and snacks—essentials that help hundreds of students thrive. But just as quickly as they’re filled, those shelves empty, showing how vital this service is to our campus community.
This past Giving Tuesday, the uOttawa community came together in an amazing show of support. A good portion of donations will go to the food bank run by the uOttawa Students’ Union, helping to ensure that students in need have food this winter. Alumni, friends, professors and staff stepped up to make a difference, contributing non-perishable food items, donating to the uOttawa Fund, and supporting campus priorities that positively impact all of us.
Here’s what we accomplished together:
- Over 500 non-perishable food items donated directly to the food bank.
- More than $12,000 raised through the uOttawa Fund to keep our food bank shelves stocked.
- Over $80,000 raised for initiatives across campus, including student scholarships, student assistance, mental health wellness, Indigenous initiatives and more.
This means more food and support for classmates in need—helping everyone focus on what really matters: succeeding in their studies.
Many donors chose to help address food insecurity among our students.
Over 56% of postsecondary students in Canada grapple with food insecurity. Many struggle to afford balanced or nutritious meals, and some even skip meals due to lack of funds. The uOttawa Student Union’s food bank has seen a 400% increase in demand over the past three years.
Giving Tuesday isn’t just about donations; it’s about generosity, community and the collective power to create change. For nearly 10 years, Giving Tuesday at uOttawa has brought us all together to make life better for students and beyond.
Together, we are building a stronger, more supportive campus for everyone.
The uOttawa Students’ Union Food Bank is in UCU 0022. Visit in person or online to learn more.
Abraham Yandjimadji Tabo
Fourth-year Computer Science Student
Co-ordinator, University of Ottawa Students Union Food Bank
