The Brandon University Student Union (BUSU) has long recognized the importance of food security for students. In response to student concerns and the shortcomings of previous initiatives, BUSU launched the Campus Cupboard, a student-friendly, affordable food program aimed at ensuring access to essential items while preserving dignity and convenience.
From Food Bank to Campus Cupboard
The Campus Cupboard evolved from a former BUSU food bank program, which, despite its good intentions, had several issues. According to Kesha, BUSU Vice President Engagement, students often felt uncomfortable being seen using the food bank.
“I can understand why,” Kesha explained. “It was well-run, but it still made students feel like they were being singled out as needing something.”
Another major issue was the lack of variety in food options. Charles, BUSU President, noted that food donations were often repetitive and not always useful to students.
“There were situations where someone would donate, like, I might be exaggerating, but 500 cans of soup. And it was just soup—no variety, no balance,” Charles said.
To address these concerns, BUSU created the Campus Cupboard, which functions more like a small store rather than a traditional food bank. Located near the student lounge, it offers a wider variety of food and household items at extremely affordable prices.
How the Campus Cupboard Works
The Campus Cupboard operates on a donation and reinvestment model. Donation bins are placed around campus—including near Bailey’s Café—where students, staff, and community members can contribute food and supplies. Additionally, the cupboard receives donations from external partners.
“All the money spent at the Campus Cupboard goes right back into buying things for it,” Kesha explained. “That way, we can keep restocking and offering students what they actually need.”
Students can find a wide range of items at the cupboard, including canned goods, drinks, desserts, pasta, noodles, and even fresh produce when available.
“We even have donations from the garden we planted,” Kesha added.
A Sustainable Initiative
During the summer, BUSU took on a gardening project in front of the Rural Development Institute. The team planted a variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, kale, onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños.
“We had a lot of kale… and a lot of tomatoes,” Kesha laughed.
The produce harvested was given to Bailey’s Café, where it was turned into soups and stews, then frozen and made available at the Campus Cupboard. This initiative not only provided fresh, nutritious food but also promoted sustainability and self-reliance.
A Student-Centered Approach
Unlike traditional food banks, which often feel like emergency relief programs, the Campus Cupboard is designed to be a regular, judgment-free resource for students. The setup makes it feel like a small store, reducing stigma and encouraging more students to take advantage of the affordable goods.
For students who have questions or want to contribute, BUSU encourages them to visit their office.
“There’s always one of us there,” Charles said. “Or if we’re not, you can always email us.”
The Campus Cupboard stands as an example of how student-led initiatives can effectively address issues like food insecurity while fostering a supportive campus environment. By offering affordability, variety, and sustainability, the program ensures that no student at Brandon University has to struggle with food insecurity alone.