Students sometimes have challenges making ends meet and affording nutritious food that supports health, wellness, and learning. You are not alone. A recent study indicates that 38% of students are food insecure (Frank, 2018).

Acadia University, the Acadia Students’ Union, and Acadia Dining Services by Chartwells are all here to support you. Supports include donations, funding, and even a garden plot if you're interested in growing your own fruits and vegetables.

Assistance Programs

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” - Virginia Woolf

Acadia Students' Union Food Cupboard

Emergency food and other supplies are available at the Acadia Students’ Union Food Cupboard located on the second floor of the Student Union Building. Check with the ASU for operating hours and more information.

The Food Cupboard was established by the Acadia Students’ Union in 2017 with a start-up grant from Chartwells Canada. Volunteers are also welcome!

Chartwells Giving Back Fund

Access to food assistance such as grocery gift cards and local food boxes is available for Acadia students. Programs vary by semester depending on student need and available funding. Please contact studentsupport@acadiau.ca for details about current programs.

Acadia Dining Services by Chartwells provides financial support for student food assistance programs through the Giving Back Fund to Acadia. Programs are administered by the Acadia Food Services Advisory Committee in consultation with Chartwells and the Vice-President Finance and Administration.

Acadia Dining Plans

Assistance with meals on campus may be available to students with financial needs. Dining Services also strives to offer a range of dining options to meet the needs of student living on and off-campus. For assistance with dining plans, please contact studentsupport@acadiau.ca.

Acadia Community Farm

The Acadia Community farm is a campus-community educational garden with free garden plots available for Acadia students. The Farm operates from May to October and is located behind the Acadia Athletics Complex. Tools and gardening workshops are also provided. No experience is necessary to join. Email farm@acadiau.ca or visit our website to learn how to get involved.

Growcer Giveaways

The Growcer is our Farm-Inside-a-Box located behind Wheelock Dining Hall. 10% of produce is given away to students and local community. Watch for pop-up giveaways on campus during the academic year.

Local Discounts

Many local businesses offer discounts to students. Here are a few with a focus on food:

• EOS offers 10% off all grocery items (all food ingredients but not including taxable items such as chocolate, ceramics, candles, supplements, etc.) on Wednesdays.
• Bulk Barn offers 10% off on Wednesdays with student ID and you can bring your own containers to save packaging waste.
• Sobeys offers 10% off on Tuesdays provided you have an Air Miles card and student ID.

Meal Exchange

Meal Exchange coordinates the student movement to transform food on Canada’s campuses. National programs include supporting campus kitchens, gardens and farms, food banks, food sovereignty and food procurement. Locally, Meal Exchange occasionally supports food assistance programs for students in need. Contact the organization for information about current programs.

Skills and Advocacy

Canada Food Guide

Eating healthy and nutritious food supports learning and living well. The new Canada Food Guide provides guidance for healthy eating, cooking tips and more.

Acadia Food Services Advisory Committee

A committee of staff, faculty, and students works to advance healthy and sustainable food policies and practices at Acadia and provide advice and assistance in food service related matters on campus. The committee reports to the Vice President Finance and Administration & Chief Financial Officer. Contact sustainability@acadiau.ca or visit our website.