University Approves “The DSU Pantry” Initiative to Tackle Cost of Living Crisis for Students

In response to the ongoing cost of living crisis affecting students, De Montfort University has approved a new project to be led by the Students’ Union; The DSU Pantry, a sustainable initiative designed to provide free access to essential food items for students in need. 

This achievement came after a compelling proposal was presented to the University Leadership Board (ULB) by the Students’ Union Executive Officers, led by Welfare Executive Officer, Adejumoke “Fluffy” Adewola, alongside Equality and Diversity Officer, Komal Shahzadi and Opportunity and Engagement Officer, Gurupriya Karasala. 

The Proposal

The proposal presented two key initiatives: 
1. Affordable Meal Initiative: A plan to provide every student with one free meal per week starting in January 2025. 
2. The DSU Pantry: A long-term, sustainable solution that would provide free access to essential food items for DMU students, helping to alleviate food insecurity.

Although initially proposed as a phased approach, with the Affordable Meal Project starting first, the ULB opted to prioritise The DSU Pantry (name subject to change) for its immediate and lasting impact. As a result, The DSU Pantry will launch earlier than expected, with operational planning set to begin in early 2025. 

Research and Inspiration 

The concept for The DSU Pantry was championed by Andrew Reynolds, Head of Income Generation and Marketing at De Montfort Students’ Union, who conducted thorough research to ensure its viability. His work included visiting a university that has successfully implemented a similar initiative and presenting this back to the Executive Officer team. This work allowed the team to present a well-informed, evidence-based proposal to the ULB. 

How The Pantry Will Work 

The DSU Pantry will be entirely free for students, with set-up costs, facilities and resources supported by the university. Students will be able to access a range of essential food items from a dedicated space within the Students’ Union once fully launched. The initiative aims to provide immediate relief to students facing financial hardship while fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment. 

Why The Pantry Matters 

Food insecurity is a growing issue among students, and The DSU Pantry offers a practical and sustainable solution. Unlike temporary measures, this initiative has been successfully adopted by several universities and has proven to be effective in supporting students without stigma or barriers. 

What’s Next? 

The Students’ Union Executive Officers will work closely with the Senior Management team and CEO of DSU to implement The DSU Pantry. The focus now shifts to planning a timeline and budget for a full launch, as well as preparing a suitable space within the Students’ Union, and ensuring all necessary resources are in place for the launch. 

“This is a huge win for our students,” said Adejumoke “Fluffy” Adewola, Welfare Executive Officer. “The DSU Pantry is a tangible solution to the challenges our students face, and we are proud to lead this initiative. We’re grateful to the University Leadership Board for recognising the distinct student need and approving this project.” 

A Collaborative Achievement 

This success underscores the power of collaboration between the Students’ Union and the University. It also highlights the dedication of the Executive Officers to prioritising student welfare and championing initiatives that make a real difference.

Stay tuned for updates about The DSU Pantry from Fluffy, our Welfare Executive Officer, on the De Montfort Students’ Union Instagram page @demontfortsu. Together, we are building a stronger, more supportive community where every student has the resources they need to succeed.