At Western, we are committed to providing every student access to nutritious food. We believe food security is essential for your well-being and academic success. Our campus is dedicated to fostering a supportive community and ensuring everyone has what they need to thrive. Explore the resources and support programs below to see how we can help you stay nourished and focused on your studies. No student faces food insecurity alone.
For All Students, Staff and Faculty
Value Picks
Discover nutritious and affordable meals with our Value Picks program! Developed by Hospitality Services, this initiative features meal items priced under $10 (before tax)—each option is labeled based on nutritional value and affordable price points using a two-colour system. Look for the Value Picks checkmarks on menu boards and To Go packages to enjoy great value without compromising on taste or quality.
For Undergraduate Students
USC Food Support
Services
Managed by the University Students’ Council (USC), Food Support Services (FSS) aims to address hunger among Western’s undergraduate students and support their full engagement. Students experiencing food insecurity can visit the FSS food bank located at Room 40F of the UCC or apply online for the Confidential Hamper Program.
For First-Year Students in Residence
FRESH
Cooking not in your wheelhouse? FRESH (Food Resources and Education for Student Health) offers cooking demos in residence dining halls to help change that. These sessions provide students with nutrition tips, boost cooking confidence and teach meal preparation skills. Learning to cook can reduce your monthly food expense when living off campus in your upper years. Plus, you get to take home whatever you make during the demo.
For All Students
Food Vouchers
For students struggling to buy groceries, food vouchers are available through the Student Financial Aid office. You may book an appointment with one of the Student Financial Aid Officers to discuss your concerns confidentially. Topics of discussion may include reviewing your OSAP entitlement, applying for financial assistance, developing a personal budget, student financial planning, debt management advice or emergency financial assistance.
For Graduate Students
SOGS Food Bank
An initiative of the Society of Graduate Students (SOGS), the SOGS Food Bank Program supports non-TA members facing financial challenges by helping them access healthy and nutritious food for themselves and their families. The program offers $150 grocery store gift cards per applicant, usable at Loblaws-owned stores, based on funding availability.
For Teaching Assistants
TA Food Support Fund
The Food Support Fund provides resources to PSAC 610 members facing financial challenges that affect their ability to afford food. Each approved applicant receives $150, plus an additional $50 for each dependent in their household (such as a spouse or children), up to a maximum of $300 per term.
For International Students
International Student Emergency Loan
Western offers short-term loans to international students facing unexpected financial emergencies. The maximum loan amount is $500. Financial emergencies may include medical expenses, delays in transferring funds from outside of Canada, costly textbooks, moving expenses and other unforeseen costs.
For International Undergrad Students
International Student Emergency Bursary Program
This program supports international undergraduate students in financial need to continue or complete their program of study at Western. Bursaries range from $300 to $2,000. You can find the fillable application form here. Students need to make an appointment with an International Student Advisor for an assessment of their eligibility for the program.
Local Meal Programs & Food Banks
Looking for more food support? We've got you covered. We've pulled together a list of food banks and community programs in London that can best serve you.
Local Meal Programs & Food Banks
Looking for more food support? We've got you covered. We've pulled together a list of food banks and community programs in London that can best serve you.