Food Security
As a student, your focus is on your academic studies while still having the best student experience, with food insecurity being the least of your worries. Laurier has the resources to help you thrive.
Check out our list of food support services, and the programs and services they offer.
Household Goods
The Freestore on the Brantford campus is operated by the Dean of Students office with support from the Sustainability Office. It allows students to shop at no charge for household goods and school items including small appliances, kitchenware, dishes, décor and office supplies. While assisting students, the initiative also diverts donated items from local landfill sites.
How it Works
Students shop for free for up to 3 items per visit and are also encouraged to donate back items they no longer need, that are in good used condition.
Where to Find Us
Find us in One Market in the Level 1 Lounge back hallway. The Brantford Freestore is open 3 days per week in fall and winter terms. For more information about the Freestore or to drop off a donation, please email Andrea Dalimonte, Manager, Student Care & Support adalimonte@wlu.ca.
The Freestore on the waterloo campus is operated by the Sustainability Office. It allows students to shop at no charge for household goods and school items including small appliances, kitchenware, dishes, décor and office supplies. While assisting students, the initiative also diverts donated items from local landfill sites.
How it Works
Students may take any items they need and are encouraged to return any good condition items when finished with them.
Where to Find Us
Find us in the Special Constables Services building in room K002. The Waterloo Freestore is open 3 days per week in fall and winter terms and by appointment outside of operating hours. For more information about the Freestore or to drop off a donation, please email sustainability@wlu.ca.
Food Programs
The Students' Union Food Bank is a year-round service that aims to help undergraduate students dealing with food insecurity.
How it Works
You can request five parcels packed with non-perishable food items per academic term, accommodating all dietary restrictions. You can request hygienic and sexual health products as needed.
For Waterloo students, you can request emergency hot meals during the fall and winter terms (entry swipes to access the dining hall).
Request Services
Where to Find Us
In Waterloo, find us in the Fred Nichols Campus Centre or contact the vice president, student services Waterloo at suvpssw@wlu.ca.
In Brantford, contact vice president, programming and services Brantford at suvppsb@wlu.ca.
The Dean of Students Office offers emergency food support in the form of gift cards to students on an as-needed basis.
How it Works
Connect with the Dean of Students Office. There are limits to multiple funding amounts that can be given. Generally, $50 to $100 gift cards are given.
Where to Find Us
In Brantford, go to the Dean of Students Office in One Market (OM207-40) or email deanofstudentsbr@wlu.ca.
Drop in and pick up a free piece of fresh fruit to fuel your mind and body! This program is run by the Student Wellness Centre in partnership with Food Services.
Fridays, September 15 to December 1, 10 to noon
Waterloo: Concourse
Brantford: Student Wellness Centre, 103 Darling Street, second floor
For questions about Fresh Fruit Fridays: wellnessed@wlu.ca
The Food Pantry at the Brantford Student Wellness Centre offers non-perishable food items if you're in need of emergency food support.
How it Works
If you attend the Student Wellness Centre and food insecurity is an issue for you, let the staff know. Gift cards may also be available from time to time.
Where to Find Us
You can find us at the Brantford Student Wellness Centre in the Students' Union Building, or connect with Claire Howarth at chowarth@wlu.ca.
In an effort to combat food insecurity, LSPIRG and Martin Luther University College runs a free Weekly Distro program each Thursday, at Luther in Waterloo, and in the LSPIRG office in Brantford. The program provides fresh and non-perishable food items as well as other essentials to Laurier and Luther students who need them.
How it Works
Take what you need and give when you can. Please bring your own shopping bag. If you have barriers in accessing the program, please contact us as options are available. To learn more about accessing this service, how to volunteer or donate, and contact information for all other inquiries, please visit https://freeweeklydistro.org.
The Breakfast Bar program will run every Tuesday and Wednesday of Fall term, September 13 to November 28 from 9:00-11:00 am, or while supplies last.
How it Works
Grab some breakfast on your way to class, connect with your peers, or find out more about university services. There will be vegan and gluten-free options available. This program is generously funded by the Student Life Levy and offered in partnership with the Student Wellness Centre and the Dean of Students Office.
How to Find Us
Brantford Wellness Hub (OM 206-30).
For questions, please connect with Claire Howarth chowarth@wlu.ca.
Climate Justice Laurier works with volunteers to grow fresh produce through the Food Justice Garden project.
How it Works
Our team grows and harvests fruit, veggies, and herbs. This food is donted to the Indigenous Student Centre and students experiencing food insecurity through the Free Weekly Distro program run by Martin Luther University College and LSPIRG.
Where to Find Us
Our garden is located at Martin Luther University College, facing Albert Street. Connect with climatejusticelaurier@gmail.com or @laurierstudentspirg on Instagram to get involved.
Cooking Resources
Make delicious and nutricious meals by following the recipes in the Eating Well: The Wellness Education Cookbook.