Food security is stronger when we work together
Reliable access to food helps students participate in classes, work, and campus life. Food security at UFV is supported by students, the Student Union Society (SUS), UFV faculty and staff, donors, and community partners.
Together, these contributions support food hampers, breakfast programs, cooking classes, community meals, and connections to additional resources. This shared work reflects UFV's values of inclusivity and community and helps reduce barriers to learning and participation.
Students and the Student Union Society
UFV students pay a food-security fee each semester. For 2026/27, the fee is $2.17 per student.
When student contributions are pooled, they create reliable funding that the Food Pantry can plan around from semester to semester. This funding helps purchase pantry staples in larger quantities and keep hamper support available across UFV campuses.
Student fees are one part of the program's funding. Together, student fees, UFV resources, donations, and community partnerships, this funding helped the Food Pantry distribute 549 food hampers across five UFV campuses in 2025/26.
Students may use different services at different points in their UFV experience. This shared funding helps keep food support available when students need it.
SUS works with UFV to support the Food Pantry and other food-security initiatives. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to accessible services and a campus where students have opportunities to participate and thrive.
Donors and community partners
Student fees do not cover the full cost of the Food Pantry. Donors and community partners help the program respond to changing student demand and rising food costs.
The Food Pantry has moved away from public food drives. Financial donations allow us to purchase consistent pantry supplies in larger quantities and avoid receiving food that doesn't meet student needs. This allows us to standardize hampers, so students know what to expect.
The Food Pantry may still accept product donations. Please contact the Food Pantry to arrange a donation.
Other ways to support food security at UFV
You can support food security at UFV by:
- learning what food insecurity can look like
- sharing Food Pantry information when it may be helpful
- talking about food support as a normal student resource
- providing feedback about food programs and barriers students experience
These actions help reduce stigma, strengthen community, and make it easier for students to connect with support.
Questions, feedback, or partnership ideas? Email foodpantry@ufv.ca
