Students at the University of Huddersfield have launched a food bank on campus to help other students struggling to make ends meet.

The Care Cupboard is about more than just free food and provides other help and support for students impacted by cost-of-living pressures.

The group who set it up are part of Enactus, an initiative dedicated to inspiring students to build a better, more sustainable world through entrepreneurial action and community development projects.

The team at Enactus Huddersfield are led by team leader Luke Hester, an MSc Digital Marketing student with a strong passion for helping others.

They first came up with the Care Cupboard idea earlier this year as part of the Enactus UK & Ireland Action4Impact “Stop Hunger” competition, where they were a Top 5 Finalist in April.

As a result, the team won £750 in funding in recognition of their idea’s potential to make a real impact on tackling food insecurity.

They opened Care Cupboard in summer 2025 and formally launched it at an open event on October 23, using the slogan “Students should be hungry for knowledge, not food.”

Not only does the project provide free food for students who may be struggling financially, there is also the chance to speak to the university’s Student Finance team about financial issues and receive guidance to help get back on track.

In addition, the Student Wellbeing Team can provide support for students in need, via counselling, workshops and groups.

Care Cupboard also reduces food waste by collecting surplus products from local supermarkets for redistribution.

The Enactus Huddersfield team has partnered with Neighbourly and has a weekly slot booked with Sainsbury’s to collect a variety of goods to keep Care Cupboard well stocked.

Located in the Harold Wilson Building, Care Cupboard is open at various times in the week and offers a safe, inclusive space for students in need.

Luke said: “The cost-of-living crisis is affecting so many students right now, so we’re pleased to have opened Care Cupboard to aid those who need that little bit of extra help.

“Having Care Cupboard on campus means students can pop along in between lectures and don’t have to go far for support.”

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