A group of students at the University of Huddersfield have launched Care Cupboard, an on-campus foodbank, to help other students who are struggling with the cost of living crisis.

The students behind the project 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 Luke Hester, an MSc Digital Marketing student with a strong passion for helping others.

Luke commented: “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”.

The group first came up with the 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 23rd of October, using the slogan “Students should be hungry for knowledge, not food”. 

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

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.

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.

The University’s Enterprise Team provides additional support and guidance for the student-led society which runs the scheme.

Nicola Walker, Enterprise Hub Manager at the University, commented: “Students are not immune from cost-of-living pressures, so it’s great to see our Team at Enactus Huddersfield leading the way on campus with another layer of support for any student in need.

I’m particularly proud of the way the Enactus team here at Huddersfield have been able to combine the Care Cupboard with wider support for students, through involving the University’s Student Finance Office, who can help with budgeting, as well as advice on eligibility for any available hardship funds, and the Student Wellbeing Team who provide support for students to strengthen their wellbeing through one-to-one appointments, counselling services, workshops and groups.”